These words are based on the application of theory and research to problems of understanding society and how people interact with each other. So, the vocabulary of sociology has developed a precise meaning. Even thought the words may be familiar, don't take it for granted that you know what they mean. We will learn those meanings together. Part of learning sociology will be seeing how the ideas apply in real life.
Sociology is an active and dynamic field.
Sociologist put into practice the understanding they gain for their research. This makes the theories and ideas relevant and applicable in your life. Part of sociology is to help us understand how different people live and how they may be like or unlike ourselves. By learning about different peoples you can see how many ways life can be lived. This class is not to make you change, but to help you make decisions about your own life, to be able to understand how you live.