Courses range from the study of both the causes and consequences of human social behavior in small groups to examining the basic organizing principles of entire societies.
Specific courses represent the core of sociology.
As a result they examine a variety of topics including social inequality, crime, the family, organizational systems, and the institution of the military. Studying sociology at USMA is not as an end in itself, but rather is a key part of the overall development of military leaders and informed citizens of character. There has been a trend away from the former view toward the latter, manifested partially in curriculum changes . . . The United States Military Academy Sociology is the scientific study of human society and culture. To be effective leaders, all officers must understand the society they are serving, as well as the various social backgrounds from which their soldiers come.