Applying Sociological Thinking and Theory Sociology is the study of human social behavior, particularly, in the areas of uncovering origins, development, institutions, and the organization of human society. Sociology may also be defined as an evaluation of a societal segment or social institution, where it is viewed as a self-contained unit, or where the unit is considered as part of the society as a whole. The study uses empirical investigation and critical evaluation, towards administering research, which is to be applied to social policy and welfare, as well as refining the comprehension of social processes (Halsey 34; Urry 23). The sociological imagination was coined by sociologist Wright Mills in 1959, describing the insights drawn from the study of sociology, towards illuminating the nature of the discipline and its relevance in every-day life. A personal example of this case was a documentary that was presented to us during a military science class, where the class learned a lot about war. The success of the experience was verified after the class took a test on war experiences, and the mean score of the class was 75%, which is way beyond the performance of 90% of the students (Mills 5). From the case explained above, it is evident that sociological knowledge differs from every-day life. The theories that are used in showing the value of sociological knowledge include conflict theory, as the new knowledge-base is linked to old understanding and functionalism, which establishes the functional association between the different sets of knowledge (Mills 5). Cultural Expressions of Central Values by Everyday Objects and Practices The central values expressed through different practices and objects, for instance, computers, surfing the internet, and eating at centers like the McDonalds among other practices and objects, include the communicating of changing societal values and interests. For instance, the practice of eating at McDonald’s communicates the interests of eating out, implying that cooking is not a preferred practice, or rather, that it is viewed as a course not worth taking, thus avoidable through eating at the McDonalds. The values expressed include that of a shift from valuing cooking at home, to valuing the activities that can be accomplished during the time to be spent cooking a home-made meal. This reflects areas of political, social, and philosophical concerns, for instance, the survival values developed in the fast-changing society, where time is a valuable commodity (Tomkins 34). 21st Century Socialization The purposes of socialization include the transmission of customs, values, and beliefs from one generation to the other. This plays the role of controlling the society, through the establishment of values and norms of control. Socialization acts as a model of learning, imparting good values like sharing self-discipline and cooperation. Socialization also offers bases from instruction giving and stimulation (Clausen 5). The main agents of socialization these days include cultural constructions, for example, the languages used in schools, work, mass media, and peer groups, especially among young adults. The lessons learned from the sources include