1. The Sociological Perspective Chapter 1, section 1

2. Social Sciences Definition: a branch of learning that deals with human society Definition: a branch of learning that deals with human society

3. Branches 1. Sociology 2. Anthropology- culture & beliefs 3. Psychology- human mental & emotional processes; individual 4. Economics- production, distribution & consumption of goods & services 5. Political Science- organization, administration, history & theory of gov’t

4. What is Sociology? The scientific study of social structure ( patterns of behavior) What behavioral patterns can you identify in your own life? http://connected.mcgraw- hill.com/media/repository/protected_content/COMPOUND/50000370/90/19/SOC14_SC_C01_L1_ci/SOC14_SC_C01_L1_ci.swf?mghCourseID=W23N2 W363CM9BV2G686Q2ZVE3M http://connected.mcgraw- hill.com/media/repository/protected_content/COMPOUND/50000370/90/19/SOC14_SC_C01_L1_ci/SOC14_SC_C01_L1_ci.swf?mghCourseID=W23N2 W363CM9BV2G686Q2ZVE3M

5. Sociological Perspective 1. Perspective- a particular point of view 2. Definition- a view that looks at behavior of groups, not individuals.

6. Importance of Patterns Social Structure- patterned interaction of people in social relations. How do group behavior & individual behavior differ? –Social relationships are not determined by the particular characteristic of the individual involved. –People’s behavior within a group setting cannot be predicted from their personal characteristics.

7. Why do people conform? 1. All groups encourage conformity- thinking, feeling, and behaving in similar ways. 2. Members have been taught to value the groups’ ways. 3. Social pressure

8. Acquiring the Sociological Imagination Definition- the ability to see the link btw. Society & self.

9. What is gained by using our sociological imagination? 1. Helps us understand the effects of events on our daily lives. 2. We are in a better position to make our own decisions rather than merely conform. 3. Questions common interpretations of human social behavior.

10. Closing What is a current issue a sociologist might study today?