{"id":30789,"date":"2026-07-29T11:46:36","date_gmt":"2026-07-29T06:16:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/?p=30789"},"modified":"2026-07-29T11:46:36","modified_gmt":"2026-07-29T06:16:36","slug":"what-is-sociology-basic-concepts","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/ugc-net\/what-is-sociology-basic-concepts","title":{"rendered":"What is Sociology? Basic Concepts, Meaning, Features &amp; Subject Matter for UGC NET"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><b><i>Sociology<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> is the scientific study of society, human relationships, social institutions, and social interactions. It is one of the foundational subjects for <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/courses\/ugc-net\/sociology\"><b><i>UGC NET Sociology<\/i><\/b><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, and according to the discussion, aspirants should begin their preparation with this topic before moving on to advanced concepts. The session emphasizes that understanding the meaning, origin, and scope of sociology provides the foundation for studying the rest of the syllabus.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">This article explains the basic concepts of sociology discussed in the session, including the origin of the term, its meaning, why sociology is considered a science, and the contribution of Auguste Comte.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center\"><span style=\"font-size: 14pt\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/courses\/ugc-net\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>Enroll UGC NET Online Coaching<\/b><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Why Should You Start UGC NET Sociology with Basic Concepts?<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the discussion, &#8220;What is Sociology?&#8221; is the first topic every UGC NET Sociology aspirant should study.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p class=\"responsive-video-wrap clr\"><iframe title=\"UGC NET Sociology Dec 2026 | What is Sociology? Basic Concepts Explained | JRFAdda\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/tmeD8qf2u8s?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The speaker explains that many candidates come from science or other academic backgrounds and may have no prior exposure to sociology. Therefore, beginning with the basic concepts helps develop a clear understanding of the subject before studying theories, thinkers, or advanced sociological concepts.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>What is Sociology?<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the discussion, Sociology is commonly described as:<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The <\/span><\/i><b><i>Science of Society<\/i><\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The <\/span><\/i><b><i>Study of Society<\/i><\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The session explains that sociology studies:<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Society<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Social relationships<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Social interaction<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Social groups<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Social life<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Social phenomena<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Rather than focusing only on individuals, sociology examines how people interact within society and how different social institutions influence human life.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/courses\/ugc-net?utm_source=website_seo1&amp;utm_medium=blog1&amp;utm_campaign=study_planner1&amp;utm_id=seo_3\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-14802 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/ai-owered-scaled.webp\" alt=\"Study Planner\" width=\"2560\" height=\"640\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/ai-owered-scaled.webp 2560w, https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/ai-owered-300x75.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/ai-owered-1024x256.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/ai-owered-768x192.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/ai-owered-1536x384.webp 1536w, https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/ai-owered-2048x512.webp 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Meaning and Origin of the Word Sociology<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The discussion explains that the term <\/span><\/i><b><i>Sociology<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> is derived from two different words.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b><i>Socius<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (Latin word) \u2014 meaning <\/span><\/i><b><i>Companion<\/i><\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b><i>Logy<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (Greek word) \u2014 meaning <\/span><\/i><b><i>Study of<\/i><\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the session, combining these two words gives the meaning of sociology as the <\/span><\/i><b><i>study of society and social relationships<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Origin of the Term Sociology<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b><i>Word<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<td><b><i>Language<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<td><b><i>Meaning<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Socius<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Latin<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Companion<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Logy<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Greek<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Study of<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the discussion, understanding the origin of the term is important because questions related to it may appear in competitive examinations.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Sociology as the Scientific Study of Society<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The session defines sociology as a <\/span><\/i><b><i>scientific study of society<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the speaker, sociology is considered scientific because it follows:<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A systematic approach.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Logical reasoning.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Scientific methods.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Structured observation.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The discussion emphasizes that sociological concepts are not based merely on assumptions. Instead, they rely on organized methods of studying society and understanding social phenomena.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>What Does Sociology Study?<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the session, sociology examines various aspects of society, including:<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Individuals<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Social groups<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Social institutions<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Social life<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Social relationships<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Social phenomena<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The speaker explains that sociology seeks to understand how people live together, interact with one another, and organize themselves within society.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/courses\/ugc-net?utm_source=website_seo1&amp;utm_medium=blog1&amp;utm_campaign=study_planner1&amp;utm_id=seo_3\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-14802 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/ai-owered-scaled.webp\" alt=\"Study Planner\" width=\"2560\" height=\"640\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/ai-owered-scaled.webp 2560w, https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/ai-owered-300x75.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/ai-owered-1024x256.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/ai-owered-768x192.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/ai-owered-1536x384.webp 1536w, https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/ai-owered-2048x512.webp 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Why is Sociology Called the Study of Society?<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The discussion explains that society is made up of individuals, groups, institutions, and relationships.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Therefore, sociology studies not only people but also the interactions that connect them.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the session, sociology also examines:<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Family<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Education<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Religion<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Economy<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Politics<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">These areas help explain how different institutions influence society and shape social life.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Who Coined the Term Sociology?<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the discussion, the term <\/span><\/i><b><i>Sociology<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> was coined by <\/span><\/i><b><i>Auguste Comte<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> in <\/span><\/i><b><i>1839<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The session identifies Auguste Comte as the <\/span><\/i><b><i>Father of Sociology<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> and explains that he was a <\/span><\/i><b><i>French sociologist<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The speaker also mentions that before using the term &#8220;Sociology,&#8221; Auguste Comte had referred to the subject as <\/span><\/i><b><i>Social Physics<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">. However, after learning that the term had already been used by another scholar, he adopted the name <\/span><\/i><b><i>Sociology<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> instead.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Auguste Comte at a Glance<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b><i>Feature<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<td><b><i>Details Mentioned in the Session<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Title<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Father of Sociology<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Nationality<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">French Sociologist<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Year Sociology Term Coined<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">1839<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Earlier Name Used<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Social Physics<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2><b><i>Why is Auguste Comte Important?<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the discussion, Auguste Comte played an important role in establishing sociology as a separate academic discipline.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The speaker explains that his work laid the foundation for the systematic study of society, making him one of the most important thinkers in sociology.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Basic Overview of Sociology<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The session introduces sociology as a discipline that studies society through a systematic and scientific approach.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the discussion, sociology focuses on understanding:<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Social interaction<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Culture<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Society<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Social institutions<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Human behaviour within society<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">These concepts form the basis of later topics covered in UGC NET Sociology.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/https:\/\/play.google.com\/store\/apps\/details?id=com.govtjobs.alertapp&amp;utm_source=blog&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=app_download \" rel=\"nofollow\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-14807 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/JRF-Adda-in-your-pocket-app.webp\" alt=\"App JRF Adda\" width=\"1200\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/JRF-Adda-in-your-pocket-app.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/JRF-Adda-in-your-pocket-app-300x100.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/JRF-Adda-in-your-pocket-app-1024x341.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/JRF-Adda-in-your-pocket-app-768x256.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/JRF-Adda-in-your-pocket-app-900x300.webp 900w, https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/JRF-Adda-in-your-pocket-app-620x207.webp 620w, https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/JRF-Adda-in-your-pocket-app-400x133.webp 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Key Takeaways from Part 1<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b><i>Topic<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<td><b><i>Key Learning<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Sociology<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Scientific study of society.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Origin<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Derived from the Latin word Socius and the Greek word Logy.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Main Focus<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Society, social interaction, groups, institutions, and relationships.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Father of Sociology<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Auguste Comte.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Year<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Sociology term coined in 1839.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Earlier Name<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Social Physics.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2><b><i>Why is Sociology Called a Science?<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">One of the most important questions introduced in the session is why sociology is considered a <\/span><\/i><b><i>science<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">. Since sociology studies human society rather than physical objects, many beginners often wonder why it is classified as a scientific discipline.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the discussion, science is not limited to laboratory experiments or chemical reactions. A subject can be considered scientific if it studies its subject matter objectively, follows a systematic method, and relies on logical reasoning and evidence. Sociology meets these criteria through its structured approach to understanding society.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>What Makes Sociology Scientific?<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The session explains that sociology follows scientific methods while studying society.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the discussion, sociology:<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Uses systematic methods of study.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Relies on logical reasoning.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Studies facts objectively.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Uses empirical observations.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Explains social phenomena through evidence rather than assumptions.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The speaker emphasizes that sociological concepts are supported by reasoning and organized methods rather than personal opinions.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Understanding Objectivity in Sociology<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A key concept discussed in the session is <\/span><\/i><b><i>objectivity<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the speaker, objectivity means studying facts without personal bias. A fact is something that remains true for everyone and can be verified through observation or evidence.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The discussion explains that sociology attempts to study society using this objective approach instead of depending on individual beliefs or assumptions.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/https:\/\/play.google.com\/store\/apps\/details?id=com.govtjobs.alertapp&amp;utm_source=blog&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=app_download \" rel=\"nofollow\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-14807 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/JRF-Adda-in-your-pocket-app.webp\" alt=\"App JRF Adda\" width=\"1200\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/JRF-Adda-in-your-pocket-app.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/JRF-Adda-in-your-pocket-app-300x100.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/JRF-Adda-in-your-pocket-app-1024x341.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/JRF-Adda-in-your-pocket-app-768x256.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/JRF-Adda-in-your-pocket-app-900x300.webp 900w, https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/JRF-Adda-in-your-pocket-app-620x207.webp 620w, https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/JRF-Adda-in-your-pocket-app-400x133.webp 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Features of Sociology<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The session introduces several important characteristics that define sociology as a discipline.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">These features help distinguish sociology from other branches of knowledge and are frequently tested in competitive examinations.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>1. Sociology is an Independent Science<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the discussion, sociology is an <\/span><\/i><b><i>independent science<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> because it is not a branch of any other subject.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Although sociology studies areas such as family, economy, politics, education, and religion, it has its own concepts, methods, and scope of study.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b><i>Feature<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<td><b><i>Explanation from the Discussion<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Independent Science<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Sociology is a separate discipline with its own subject matter.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2><b><i>2. Sociology is a Social Science<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The session explains that sociology is classified as a <\/span><\/i><b><i>social science<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, not a physical science.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Unlike subjects such as physics or chemistry, sociology studies:<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Human behaviour<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Society<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Social institutions<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Social relationships<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Social interaction<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Its primary focus is understanding people and their relationships within society.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>3. Sociology is a Categorical Science<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the discussion, sociology is described as a <\/span><\/i><b><i>categorical science<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> rather than a normative discipline.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The speaker explains that sociology focuses on understanding and classifying social realities instead of prescribing rules about how people should behave.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">It studies categories, groups, and social classifications to understand society systematically.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>4. Sociology is a Pure Science<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The discussion explains that sociology is considered a <\/span><\/i><b><i>pure science<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> rather than an applied science.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the speaker, pure sciences focus on developing concepts and theories, whereas applied sciences emphasize practical application.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The session presents sociology as a discipline that primarily develops knowledge about society through systematic study.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Pure Science vs Applied Science<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b><i>Pure Science<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<td><b><i>Applied Science<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Focuses on developing theories and concepts.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Focuses on applying knowledge to practical problems.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Sociology is presented in this category during the discussion.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Mentioned for comparison in the session.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2><b><i>5. Sociology is an Abstract Science<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Another important feature discussed is that sociology is an <\/span><\/i><b><i>abstract science<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the speaker, sociology studies concepts such as:<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Social relationships<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Human interaction<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Social consciousness<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Social experiences<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">These concepts cannot be observed as physical objects but can be understood through human behaviour and social interaction.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The discussion explains that sociology studies ideas and relationships rather than tangible objects.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>6. Sociology is a General Science<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The session states that sociology is a <\/span><\/i><b><i>general science<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> because it studies society broadly instead of focusing on one specific individual or institution.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the discussion, sociology seeks to understand general social processes that influence society as a whole.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>7. Sociology is Rational and Empirical<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The discussion also describes sociology as both <\/span><\/i><b><i>rational<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> and <\/span><\/i><b><i>empirical<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the speaker:<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b><i>Rational<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> means sociology explains social phenomena through logic and reasoning.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b><i>Empirical<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> means sociology relies on observation and human experience while studying society.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The session emphasizes that empirical knowledge is based on experience rather than speculation.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Major Features of Sociology<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b><i>Feature<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<td><b><i>Description<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Independent Science<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Has its own scope and subject matter.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Social Science<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Studies society and human behaviour.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Categorical Science<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Focuses on classification and understanding rather than prescribing norms.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Pure Science<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Primarily develops theories and concepts.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Abstract Science<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Studies relationships and social phenomena rather than physical objects.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">General Science<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Examines society as a whole.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Rational &amp; Empirical<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Uses logic, observation, and experience.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2><b><i>Major Thinkers Introduced in the Session<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Along with Auguste Comte, the discussion briefly introduces several classical sociologists who play an important role in the development of sociology.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b><i>Thinker<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<td><b><i>Description Mentioned<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Auguste Comte<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Father of Sociology; French sociologist.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u00c9mile Durkheim<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">French sociologist.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Max Weber<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">German sociologist.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Karl Marx<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">German sociologist.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the speaker, these thinkers are studied in detail later in the sociology syllabus and form an essential part of Unit 1.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Key Takeaways from Part 2<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b><i>Topic<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<td><b><i>Key Learning<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Sociology as a Science<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Studies society through objective, systematic, and scientific methods.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Independent Science<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Has its own discipline and scope.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Social Science<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Focuses on society and human behaviour.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Pure Science<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Develops sociological theories and concepts.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Abstract Science<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Studies social relationships and interactions.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Rational &amp; Empirical<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Relies on logic, observation, and experience.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Important Thinkers<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Auguste Comte, \u00c9mile Durkheim, Max Weber, and Karl Marx were introduced.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2><b><i>What is the Subject Matter of Sociology?<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">After introducing the meaning and characteristics of sociology, the discussion explains <\/span><\/i><b><i>what sociology actually studies<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">. This is referred to as the <\/span><\/i><b><i>subject matter of sociology<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, which includes the different areas and approaches through which sociologists understand society.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the session, sociology is not limited to studying individuals alone. It examines society from multiple perspectives, including its historical development, contemporary social issues, and the reasons behind various social phenomena.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/UGC-NET-Live-PYQ-Test-Series.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/UGC-NET-Live-PYQ-Test-Series.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1200\" height=\"400\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Alex Inkeles and the Subject Matter of Sociology<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The discussion introduces <\/span><\/i><b><i>Alex Inkeles<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, a prominent sociologist whose book <\/span><\/i><b><i>What is Sociology?<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> is mentioned as an important reference for understanding the discipline.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the session, Alex Inkeles classified the subject matter of sociology into <\/span><\/i><b><i>three major approaches<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">:<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Historical Approach<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Empirical Approach<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Analytical Approach<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The speaker notes that questions related to this classification have appeared in competitive examinations, making it an important topic for UGC NET aspirants.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Three Approaches to the Subject Matter of Sociology<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b><i>Approach<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<td><b><i>Focus in Sociology<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Historical<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Development of sociology through its founding thinkers<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Empirical<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Contemporary sociological studies and observations<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Analytical<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Understanding the causes and explanations behind social phenomena<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2><b><i>Historical Approach<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the discussion, the <\/span><\/i><b><i>Historical Approach<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> focuses on the evolution of sociology as a discipline.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The session explains that this approach studies:<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The founding fathers of sociology.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The development of sociological thought.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The ideas introduced by classical sociologists.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">How sociology emerged as an independent discipline.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Through this approach, students learn how early sociologists contributed to the growth of sociology and shaped its theoretical foundations.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Empirical Approach<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The discussion explains that the <\/span><\/i><b><i>Empirical Approach<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> examines contemporary sociological work.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the speaker, this approach focuses on:<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Current sociological research.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Contemporary social issues.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Modern sociological studies.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Observation-based understanding of society.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The session emphasizes that empirical sociology is based on observation and experience rather than assumptions, making it an important part of scientific inquiry.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Analytical Approach<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The third approach discussed in the session is the <\/span><\/i><b><i>Analytical Approach<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the discussion, this approach attempts to understand the <\/span><\/i><b><i>reasons behind social events and social behaviour<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Rather than merely describing what happens in society, sociology also seeks to explain <\/span><\/i><b><i>why<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> those events occur.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The speaker explains that identifying the causes behind social phenomena is one of the key objectives of sociological analysis.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Alex Inkeles&#8217; Classification at a Glance<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b><i>Subject Matter<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<td><b><i>What It Studies<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Historical<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Evolution of sociology and contributions of founding thinkers<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Empirical<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Current sociological research and observation-based studies<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Analytical<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Causes and explanations of social phenomena<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2><b><i>Major Areas Studied in Sociology<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The discussion explains that sociology covers a wide range of topics because society itself consists of many interconnected institutions and processes.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the session, sociology studies:<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Family<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Education<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Religion<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Economy<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Politics<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Culture<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Social interaction<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Social groups<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Human relationships<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The speaker notes that sociology attempts to understand how these institutions influence individuals and society as a whole.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Society as an Interconnected System<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the discussion, sociology does not study each institution in isolation.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Instead, it examines how different parts of society interact with one another.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">For example, the session mentions that while studying society, sociologists also examine the influence of:<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Economic conditions.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Political systems.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Educational institutions.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Religious beliefs.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Family structures.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">This broad perspective helps explain social change and social organization.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Important Classical Thinkers Mentioned<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The discussion briefly revisits several classical sociologists whose ideas are studied in later units of the syllabus.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b><i>Thinker<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<td><b><i>Description Mentioned in the Session<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Auguste Comte<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Father of Sociology; French sociologist<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u00c9mile Durkheim<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">French sociologist<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Max Weber<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">German sociologist<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Karl Marx<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">German sociologist<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the speaker, these thinkers form an essential part of the foundational study of sociology and are discussed in greater detail later in the course.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Why is Alex Inkeles Important for UGC NET?<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The session highlights Alex Inkeles because his classification of sociology&#8217;s subject matter is considered examination-oriented.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the discussion, aspirants should remember:<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The three approaches.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Their meanings.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Their role in understanding sociology.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The speaker specifically notes that questions related to this topic have appeared in previous competitive examinations, making it useful for revision.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Quick Revision Table<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b><i>Topic<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<td><b><i>Key Point<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Alex Inkeles<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Classified the subject matter of sociology into three approaches.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Historical Approach<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Studies the development of sociology and founding thinkers.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Empirical Approach<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Focuses on observation and contemporary sociological research.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Analytical Approach<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Explains the causes behind social events and behaviour.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Major Areas<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Family, education, religion, economy, politics, culture, and social interaction.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2><b><i>Key Takeaways from Part 3<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b><i>Topic<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<td><b><i>Key Learning<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Subject Matter<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Sociology studies society through different approaches.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Alex Inkeles<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Introduced three approaches to understanding sociology.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Historical<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Focuses on the evolution of sociological thought.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Empirical<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Studies present-day society through observation and experience.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Analytical<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Explains the reasons behind social phenomena.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Scope<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Includes family, religion, education, politics, economy, culture, and social interaction.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2><b><i>Sociology vs Common Sense<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Towards the end of the session, the discussion highlights an important distinction between <\/span><\/i><b><i>Sociology<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> and <\/span><\/i><b><i>Common Sense<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">. Although both help people understand society, the speaker explains that they are fundamentally different in their approach.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the discussion, common sense is largely based on personal experiences, traditions, and widely accepted beliefs, whereas sociology relies on scientific methods, evidence, observation, and logical analysis. This difference makes sociology a systematic discipline rather than a collection of everyday opinions.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/https:\/\/www.flipkart.com\/ugc-net-general-paper-1-hand-written-book-jrfadda-notes-aditi-ma-m\/p\/itm494f814128b46 \" rel=\"nofollow\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-14809 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/book-banner-2.webp\" alt=\"JRF Adda Book\" width=\"1200\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/book-banner-2.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/book-banner-2-300x100.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/book-banner-2-1024x341.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/book-banner-2-768x256.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/book-banner-2-900x300.webp 900w, https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/book-banner-2-620x207.webp 620w, https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/book-banner-2-400x133.webp 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Why Sociology is Different from Common Sense<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The session explains that sociology does not accept ideas simply because they are popular or widely believed.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Instead, sociologists:<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Examine evidence.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Conduct systematic studies.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Analyze facts objectively.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Question existing assumptions.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Search for logical explanations behind social behaviour.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the speaker, sociology encourages critical thinking instead of accepting beliefs without investigation.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Sociology vs Common Sense: A Comparison<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b><i>Sociology<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<td><b><i>Common Sense<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Based on research and evidence<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Based on personal experience and everyday beliefs<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Uses scientific methods<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Depends on observation without systematic investigation<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Questions assumptions<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Often accepts traditions and stereotypes<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Seeks logical explanations<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Relies on commonly accepted opinions<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Objective and analytical<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Subjective and experience-based<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The discussion emphasizes that sociology seeks verifiable explanations, while common sense may differ from one individual or community to another.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Why Sociology Challenges Stereotypes<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the session, sociology does not accept stereotypes at face value.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The speaker explains that when a commonly held belief exists in society, sociology attempts to investigate the reasons behind it instead of assuming it is always true.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Rather than accepting generalizations, sociologists ask questions such as:<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">What evidence supports this belief?<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Is the assumption universally valid?<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">What social factors influence this situation?<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Can research explain the observed pattern?<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">This analytical approach helps sociology move beyond assumptions toward evidence-based understanding.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Scientific Thinking in Sociology<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The discussion explains that sociology follows a scientific process while studying society.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the session, sociological thinking includes:<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Observing social behaviour.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Collecting evidence.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Using systematic methods.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Analyzing relationships.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Drawing logical conclusions.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The speaker emphasizes that sociology studies society through facts and research rather than personal opinions.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Why Evidence Matters in Sociology<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A major point highlighted in the discussion is that sociology depends on <\/span><\/i><b><i>evidence<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the session:<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Conclusions should be supported by facts.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Research helps verify social observations.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Scientific methods improve objectivity.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Logical reasoning strengthens sociological explanations.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">This evidence-based approach distinguishes sociology from everyday assumptions.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Examination-Oriented Points from the Session<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The discussion highlights several facts that aspirants should remember for competitive examinations.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b><i>Topic<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<td><b><i>Important Point<\/i><\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Origin of Sociology<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Derived from the Latin word Socius and the Greek word Logy.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Father of Sociology<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Auguste Comte<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Sociology Term Coined<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">1839<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Earlier Name<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Social Physics<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Alex Inkeles<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Classified the subject matter into Historical, Empirical, and Analytical approaches.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Sociology<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<td><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Scientific study of society.<\/span><\/i><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">These factual points were emphasized throughout the discussion as important concepts for beginners and examination preparation.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Preparation Tips from the Session<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The speaker concludes by encouraging aspirants to build a strong conceptual foundation before studying advanced sociological theories.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the discussion, students should:<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Begin with the basic concepts of sociology.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Understand important definitions and terminology.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Remember key thinkers and important years.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Learn the features of sociology.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Understand why sociology is considered a science.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Revise important concepts regularly before moving to advanced topics.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The session also suggests continuing with topics such as the <\/span><\/i><b><i>Emergence of Sociology<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> after mastering these foundational concepts.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><b><i>Conclusion<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The discussion introduces sociology as a systematic and scientific discipline that seeks to understand society through observation, logical reasoning, and evidence-based analysis. Beginning with the meaning, origin, characteristics, and subject matter of sociology helps aspirants develop the conceptual clarity required for higher-level topics.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The session also highlights the importance of distinguishing sociology from common sense. Instead of relying on assumptions or popular beliefs, sociology encourages objective inquiry and critical thinking. By mastering these basic concepts, candidates can build a strong foundation for UGC NET Sociology and other competitive examinations.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><b><i>What is Sociology Basic Concepts FAQs<\/i><\/b><\/h2>\n<style>#sp-ea-30794 .spcollapsing { height: 0; overflow: hidden; transition-property: height;transition-duration: 300ms;}#sp-ea-30794{ position: relative; }#sp-ea-30794 .ea-card{ opacity: 0;}#eap-preloader-30794{ position: absolute; left: 0; top: 0; height: 100%;width: 100%; text-align: center;display: flex; align-items: center;justify-content: center;}#sp-ea-30794.sp-easy-accordion>.sp-ea-single {margin-bottom: 10px; border: 1px solid #e2e2e2; }#sp-ea-30794.sp-easy-accordion>.sp-ea-single>.ea-header a {color: #444;}#sp-ea-30794.sp-easy-accordion>.sp-ea-single>.sp-collapse>.ea-body {background: #fff; color: #444;}#sp-ea-30794.sp-easy-accordion>.sp-ea-single {background: #eee;}#sp-ea-30794.sp-easy-accordion>.sp-ea-single>.ea-header a .ea-expand-icon { float: left; color: #444;font-size: 16px;}<\/style><div id=\"sp_easy_accordion-1785305632\"><div id=\"sp-ea-30794\" class=\"sp-ea-one sp-easy-accordion\" data-ea-active=\"ea-click\" data-ea-mode=\"vertical\" data-preloader=\"1\" data-scroll-active-item=\"1\" data-offset-to-scroll=\"0\"><div id=\"eap-preloader-30794\" class=\"accordion-preloader\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-content\/plugins\/easy-accordion-free\/public\/assets\/ea_loader.svg\" alt=\"Loader image\"\/><\/div><div class=\"ea-card ea-expand sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" id=\"ea-header-307940\" role=\"button\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=\"#collapse307940\" aria-controls=\"collapse307940\" href=\"#\" aria-expanded=\"true\" tabindex=\"0\"><i aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"presentation\" class=\"ea-expand-icon eap-icon-ea-expand-minus\"><\/i> What is Sociology?<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse collapsed show\" id=\"collapse307940\" data-parent=\"#sp-ea-30794\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"ea-header-307940\"> <div class=\"ea-body\"><p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the discussion, sociology is the <\/span><\/i><b><i>scientific study of society<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, including social relationships, social interaction, institutions, and social phenomena.<\/span><\/i><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" id=\"ea-header-307941\" role=\"button\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=\"#collapse307941\" aria-controls=\"collapse307941\" href=\"#\" aria-expanded=\"false\" tabindex=\"0\"><i aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"presentation\" class=\"ea-expand-icon eap-icon-ea-expand-plus\"><\/i> Why is Sociology called a science?<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse \" id=\"collapse307941\" data-parent=\"#sp-ea-30794\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"ea-header-307941\"> <div class=\"ea-body\"><p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The session explains that sociology follows objective, systematic, logical, and evidence-based methods while studying society, which is why it is regarded as a science.<\/span><\/i><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" id=\"ea-header-307942\" role=\"button\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=\"#collapse307942\" aria-controls=\"collapse307942\" href=\"#\" aria-expanded=\"false\" tabindex=\"0\"><i aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"presentation\" class=\"ea-expand-icon eap-icon-ea-expand-plus\"><\/i> Who is known as the Father of Sociology?<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse \" id=\"collapse307942\" data-parent=\"#sp-ea-30794\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"ea-header-307942\"> <div class=\"ea-body\"><p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the discussion, <\/span><\/i><b><i>Auguste Comte<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> is known as the Father of Sociology, and he coined the term \"Sociology\" in <\/span><\/i><b><i>1839<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">.<\/span><\/i><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" id=\"ea-header-307943\" role=\"button\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=\"#collapse307943\" aria-controls=\"collapse307943\" href=\"#\" aria-expanded=\"false\" tabindex=\"0\"><i aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"presentation\" class=\"ea-expand-icon eap-icon-ea-expand-plus\"><\/i> What is the origin of the word Sociology?<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse \" id=\"collapse307943\" data-parent=\"#sp-ea-30794\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"ea-header-307943\"> <div class=\"ea-body\"><p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The discussion explains that the term is derived from the Latin word <\/span><\/i><b><i>Socius<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (Companion) and the Greek word <\/span><\/i><b><i>Logy<\/i><\/b><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (Study of).<\/span><\/i><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" id=\"ea-header-307944\" role=\"button\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=\"#collapse307944\" aria-controls=\"collapse307944\" href=\"#\" aria-expanded=\"false\" tabindex=\"0\"><i aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"presentation\" class=\"ea-expand-icon eap-icon-ea-expand-plus\"><\/i> What are the three approaches to the subject matter of Sociology?<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse \" id=\"collapse307944\" data-parent=\"#sp-ea-30794\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"ea-header-307944\"> <div class=\"ea-body\"><p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">According to the session, Alex Inkeles classified the subject matter of sociology into:<\/span><\/i><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Historical<\/span><\/i><\/li><\/ul><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Empirical<\/span><\/i><\/li><\/ul><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Analytical<\/span><\/i><\/li><\/ul><p>&nbsp;<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" id=\"ea-header-307945\" role=\"button\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=\"#collapse307945\" aria-controls=\"collapse307945\" href=\"#\" aria-expanded=\"false\" tabindex=\"0\"><i aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"presentation\" class=\"ea-expand-icon eap-icon-ea-expand-plus\"><\/i> Why is it important to understand Sociology before studying advanced topics?<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse \" id=\"collapse307945\" data-parent=\"#sp-ea-30794\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"ea-header-307945\"> <div class=\"ea-body\"><p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The speaker explains that understanding the basic concepts provides the foundation for studying sociological theories, thinkers, and advanced units in the syllabus.<\/span><\/i><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><script type=\"application\/ld+json\">{ \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"@type\": \"FAQPage\", \"@id\": \"sp-ea-schema-30794-6a6aff13c4afa\", \"mainEntity\": [{ \"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"What is Sociology?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": { \"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"<i>According to the discussion, sociology is the<\/i><b><i>scientific study of society<\/i><\/b><i>, including social relationships, social interaction, institutions, and social phenomena.<\/i>\" } },{ \"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Why is Sociology called a science?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": { \"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"<i>The session explains that sociology follows objective, systematic, logical, and evidence-based methods while studying society, which is why it is regarded as a science.<\/i>\" } },{ \"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Who is known as the Father of Sociology?\", 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It is one of the foundational subjects for UGC NET Sociology, and according to the discussion, aspirants should begin their preparation with this topic before moving on to advanced concepts. The session emphasizes that understanding the meaning, origin, and scope of [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":14,"featured_media":30790,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[13],"tags":[1953,1951,1952,1950],"class_list":["post-30789","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-ugc-net","tag-sociology-basic-concept","tag-sociology-basic-concepts","tag-what-is-sociology","tag-what-is-sociology-basic-concepts","entry","has-media"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/30789","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/14"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=30789"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/30789\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":30796,"href":"https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/30789\/revisions\/30796"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/30790"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=30789"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=30789"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.jrfadda.com\/exams\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=30789"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}