It is the focus on the social that allows sociologists to see much that escapes the notice of other observers; it is what makes sociology unique.

People in modern Western societies have been taught to embrace individualism. Sociologists have taught themselves not to be satisfied with explanations that focus on individuals, but to look at the social environment and the ways in which it affects people. **Use examples of page 28, Ch. 2.

** Use example 2.1 on page 33, Ch. 2 “The Sociological Imagination”-- the ability to look beyond the personal troubles of individuals to see the public issues of social structure– that is, the social forces operating in the larger society. ** Use example 2.1 on page 33, Ch. 2

Truly understanding social things involves identifying both their manifest functions and latent functions. Manifest functions Latent functions Intended and obvious Unintended and frequently hidden

So… what are the manifest and latent functions of… Carrying a briefcase?

So… what are the manifest and latent functions of… Mother’s Day and Father’s Day?

So… what are the manifest and latent functions of… a college education?

So… what are the manifest and latent functions of… high school sports?

So… what are the manifest and latent functions of… attending church?

So… what are the manifest and latent functions of… attending Sociology class?

Now you BRAINSTORM a specific event, product or situation and identify the manifest and latent functions for it.