1. Foundations

2. Defining “Sociology” Formal definition The problem: What is “society”? What is “social”? Distinctive approaches –Macro vs Micro –Qualitative vs Quantitative

3. Sociology’s Founders I: KARL MARX Marx’s critique of capitalism –Counters basic human needs –Creates social inequality –Requires exploitation Marx’s contributionn –The conflict paradigm –Exploration of economy/society relationship –Emphasis on social inequality

4. Sociology’s Founders II: EMILE DURKHEIM Durkheim studies “social facts” Developed the perspective known as “functionalism” Established sociology as a unique academic discipline

5. Sociology’s Founders III: MAX WEBER Promoted “idealism” versus “materialism” Emphasized “rationalization” as historical process that defined social evolution Promoted sociological study of organizations Promoted sociological study of politics, religion, law, and other institutions

6. Sociology’s Paradigms Stuctural Functionalism Conflict Symbolic Interactionism Gender “Postmodern” Perspectives