Section 1 Examining Social Life Chapter 1 Section 1 Examining Social Life

Social Sciences Disciplines that examine human social behavior or institutions and the functions of society in a scientific manner Anthropology: study of past and present cultures Psychology: study of behavior and mental processes Economics: analyzing choices people make to satisfy their needs and wants Political Science: examination of the principles, organization, and operation of government History: study of people and events of the past And Sociology (of course)!!!

Sociology The social science that studies human society and social behavior Focus on social interaction- how people relate to one another and influence each other’s behavior Sociologists tend to focus on the group over the individual Examination of social phenomena- observable facts or events that involve in human society

Sociological Perspective Involves looking at social life in a scientific, systematic way rather than depending on common sense Involves looking beyond commonly held beliefs/explanations to examine hidden meanings behind human actions Behavior is influenced by social factors Behavior is learned from others There are different perspectives of social reality

Sociological Imagination The ability to see the connection between the larger world and your personal life “The capacity to range from the most impersonal and remote topics to the most intimate features of the human self…”

Homework Pg. 7 #1-5 on a piece of looseleaf