BBA 3rd Semester

Meaning of sociology
 According to kingsley David “sociology is the general science of society”.

Sociology is the study of society of society, which is the web of human
interactions and inter-relations.
Sociology can be defined as the scientific study of men’s behavior in groups
(as family, school), human social relationship and social processes within their
environment. sociology examines various aspects of social life, such as culture,
socialization, social inequality, social institutions (such as family, education,
religion, and government), social change, and social movements. Sociologists use
a range of research methods, including surveys, interviews, observations, and
statistical analysis, to collect and analyze data about social phenomena. They aim
to uncover the underlying social processes, dynamics, and factors that influence
human behavior, beliefs, attitudes, and interactions.
Aguste comte is considered as the “father of the sociology” because he was the
first person to use the word ‘sociology’ in print in 1983, but also He the one who
emphasized and establish sociology as a scientific discipline. According to him,
sociology makes use of scientific methods (such as social survey experimentation,
empirical observation, comparison etc.) for the study of human group behavior and
society. The idea of Aguste comte is known as positivism.
However, John stuart Mill, a social thinker, and philosopher of the 19th century
proposed the word ‘ethology’ for this new science. So, with the contribution of
spencer and others, “Sociology” became the permanent name of this new science.
By studying sociology, researchers and scholars gain insights into the complexities
of social life, the factors that contribute to social problems and inequalities, and
the ways in which societies change over time. Sociology can provide valuable
perspectives and knowledge for addressing social issues, informing public policy,
and promoting social justice. It helps us understand the social forces that shape our
lives, relationships, and communities, and offers critical perspectives on the
functioning of societies and the impacts of social structures on individuals and
groups.
How is the knowledge of sociology is helpful for managers.
 The knowledge of sociology can be highly valuable for managers in various ways.
Here are some ways in which sociology can benefit managers:
Understanding organizational behavior: Sociology provides insights into how

individuals and groups behave within organizations. It examines factors such as
organizational culture, socialization processes, power dynamics, and group
behavior. This understanding can help managers create a positive work
environment, foster effective teamwork, and manage conflicts within the
organization.
Managing diversity and inclusivity: Sociology emphasizes the importance of

diversity and inclusion in organizations. It helps managers understand the impact
of social identities (such as race, gender, and ethnicity) on employee experiences
and interactions. By applying sociological knowledge, managers can create
inclusive policies, address biases and discrimination, and promote diversity in
recruitment and promotion practices.
Analyzing organizational structures: Sociology examines how organizational

structures, hierarchies, and bureaucracies influence behavior and decision-making
within organizations. Managers can utilize this knowledge to evaluate and improve
organizational structures, streamline processes, and enhance communication and
collaboration across different levels and departments.
Addressing social and ethical issues: Sociology sheds light on the social and
ethical dimensions of organizational practices. It helps managers identify and
address social issues such as inequality, labor exploitation, and environmental
impact. Sociological knowledge can guide managers in developing socially
responsible business practices and making ethical decisions that consider the
broader societal impact.
Managing change and innovation: Sociology explores the dynamics of social

change and adaptation. Managers can apply sociological insights to effectively
manage organizational change processes, understand resistance to change, and
foster innovation within the organization. This knowledge can aid in navigating
the complexities of a rapidly changing business environment.
Understanding consumer behavior: Sociology examines how social factors

influence consumer behavior and decision-making. Managers can use sociological
knowledge to analyze consumer trends, preferences, and social influences on
purchasing decisions. This understanding can guide marketing strategies, product
development, and customer relationship management.
Effective leadership and employee motivation: Sociology provides insights into

leadership styles, social influence, and motivation within organizations. Managers
can utilize sociological knowledge to adopt leadership approaches that inspire and
motivate employees, build strong relationships, and create a positive
organizational culture.
Overall, the knowledge of sociology equips managers with a deeper understanding

of the social dynamics within organizations, helps them navigate social and ethical
challenges, manage diversity, drive change, and make informed decisions that
consider the broader societal context. It enables managers to create more inclusive,
effective, and socially responsible organizations.
Subject matters (major concerns) of sociology

 The subject matters of sociology refer to the “major concerns of sociology”. There
are various views regarding the subject matter of sociology. Sociologist are
exploring and expanding their on wide new aspects of society, therefore there is no
limitation of the subject matter of sociology. However, the subject matter of
sociology is the society rather than an individual”.
The subject’s matters of sociology are described below: -

1. Sociological Analysis: - The major concern of sociology is sociological
analysis. It means the sociologist seeks to provide an analysis of human society
and culture with a sociological perspective and attempt is made to analyze the
factors of forces underlying the historical transformation of society.
2. Study of primary units of social life: - Sociology has given sufficient
attention to the study of primary units of social life such as social acts and
social relationship i.e. love & care, individual personality, groups (including
ethnic class etc.), communities (urban and rural), associations, organization,
population etc.
3. Study of social institution: -
Sociology attempts to understand the development, structure and function of
wide variety of basic social institution such as marriage, family, a kinship
which are micro-social institution and religion, economy, education and
welfare institution etc. are macro-social institution.
4. Study of social process
Sociology has a due concern to fundamental social process such as
cooperation, competition, differential and stratification, accommodation and
assimilation, social conflict, socialization deviance (crime, fear, suicide), social
control, social change, social integration, social evaluation (study of values).
5. Formulation of concepts, propositions & theories
In order to understand social phenomena, the sociological study tries to
formulate a concept, propositions, and theories that help us to view and
understand society and its phenomena.
6. Methods of research
To conduct scientific sociological research, various methods and tools
techniques like observation, questionnaire, interview, case study etc. are
applied and considered vital.
7. Specialization of Sociology
In trying to resolve the problem-specific social aspects, sociology tries to carry
our its study on the specific area of social life. E.g. Sociology of religion, rural
sociology, industrial sociology, urban sociology, industrial sociology, etc.
Limitations of sociology as a Science
There is no critical approach to sociology and argue that sociology cannot be
science. The non-supporters of the belief that sociology cannot be regarded as science has
the following reasons: -
1. Unreliable open laboratory: -
2. Interdependence of cause and effect: -
3. Intangibility of social phenomena: -
4. Complexity of social data: -
5. Unpredictability: -
6. Lack of objectivity & possibility of Biasness: -
7. Lack of experiment: -
8. Lack of generalization: -
Brief Description of founders of sociology and their contributions

 Aguste comte (1798-1857)
 Karl marx (1818-1883)
 Herbtert spencer (1820-1903)
 Emile Durkheim (1858-1917)
 Max weber (1864-1920)
Aguste comte (1798-1857)
The French philosopher
Known as “father of sociology”
Contributions: -
a. Introduced the concept of positivism
b. Formulated the law of social Evolution
i. Theological or fictitious stage
ii. Metaphysical or Abstract stage
Karl Max (1818-1883)
The German philosopher and sociologist karl max

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Meaning of sociology

 According to kingsley David “sociology is the general science of society”.

Understanding organizational behavior: Sociology provides insights into how

Managing diversity and inclusivity: Sociology emphasizes the importance of

Analyzing organizational structures: Sociology examines how organizational

Managing change and innovation: Sociology explores the dynamics of social

Understanding consumer behavior: Sociology examines how social factors

Effective leadership and employee motivation: Sociology provides insights into

Overall, the knowledge of sociology equips managers with a deeper understanding

Subject matters (major concerns) of sociology

The subject’s matters of sociology are described below: -

Brief Description of founders of sociology and their contributions

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