1. Sociology: What is it Anyway?
Society,
the Basics

2. Defining Sociology
Sociology is the scientific study of human society and social interaction
Society—group of people that share a common…
Culture
Territory

3. Groups in Society
Within a society, there are many subgroups that people belong to.
What subgroups exist in Canada?(ex. Ethnic Groups, Educational Level, etc…)

4. Social Interaction
Sociologists study social interaction—the behavior of groups in society

5. Review Macrosociology Microsociology
An approach of sociology that analyzes social systems on a large scale
Example: studying religion and learning about religious worship as a large structure or institution in society
The study of small groups and individuals within a society
Example: studying religion and learning about the role and beliefs of a single worshipper or small group of worshippers within a religion

6. Group Influence on the Individual
Can you think of a behavior that is not influenced by other people?

7. Social Perspective
Social Perspective—almost every aspect of a person’s thoughts and behaviors are strongly influenced by other people
 Main Ideas:
The social situation influences people’s behavior
Radical changes in one’s behavior can occur when the situation changes

8. Example of Social Perspective: The Social Network
In what ways might people who belong to Facebook be influenced to do certain things?
How has Facebook changed your life?

9. Source:
Social Science: An Introduction. Canada: McGraw-Hill Ryerson, 2011, p. 100.
Nicole Michelle. “What is Sociology?”