Human beings are inherently social. From the family that nurtures a newborn to the online communities that connect strangers across continents, people organize themselves into groups to meet needs, express identities, and shape behaviour. In sociology, the study of social groups is central because groups are the primary units through which norms, values, roles, and … Read more
Introduction on Evolutionism by Herbert Spencer Herbert Spencer (1820–1903) was a prominent British philosopher, biologist, and sociologist who played a crucial role in shaping early sociological thought. Often regarded as one of the principal founders of sociological evolutionism, Spencer applied Charles Darwin’s theory of biological evolution to the study of society. His concept of “Social Darwinism”—though … Read more
Introduction on Postcolonial India Postcolonial India has witnessed profound social transformations shaped by historical legacies, economic development, political movements, and globalization. The end of British colonial rule in 1947 marked the beginning of a new era characterized by efforts to build a democratic, secular, and egalitarian society. Sociologically, postcolonial India has been a site of … Read more
Introduction A significant transition from agrarian economies to industrialized civilizations was brought about by the Industrial Revolution, which started in Britain in the late 18th century and eventually extended throughout Europe and North America. This period brought about technological advancements, urbanization, and significant changes in labor systems. From a sociological standpoint, the Industrial Revolution reshaped … Read more
Introduction A turning point in modern history, the French Revolution (1789–1799) signaled the end of absolutist monarchy and the emergence of democratic principles. While historians often focus on its political and economic dimensions, a sociological analysis reveals deeper insights into how social structures, class conflicts, and collective behavior shaped this transformative event. From a sociological … Read more
Introduction on Renaissance and Enlightenment The Renaissance (14th–17th centuries) and the Enlightenment (18th century) were two pivotal periods in European history that dramatically transformed society, culture, and intellectual thought. While the Renaissance marked the rebirth of classical knowledge and humanism, the Enlightenment emphasized reason, science, and individualism. From a sociological perspective, these movements reshaped social … Read more
Introduction Reality is often perceived as an objective and fixed entity, existing independently of human interpretation. However, social constructivism challenges this notion by arguing that much of what we consider “real” is shaped by social interactions, cultural norms, and collective agreements. In sociology, social constructivism examines how society creates and maintains shared understandings of reality … Read more
Introduction Feminist theory is a critical sociological perspective that examines gender inequalities, power structures, and the social construction of femininity and masculinity. Rooted in the broader feminist movement, feminist theory seeks to challenge patriarchal norms, advocate for gender equality, and analyze how intersecting social categories such as race, class, and sexuality shape women’s experiences. This … Read more
Introduction on Karl Marx Contributions to Sociology Karl Marx (1818–1883) is still regarded as one of the most important figures in political philosophy, economics, and sociology. His critiques of capitalism, theories of class struggle, and analysis of social structures have profoundly shaped sociological thought. Marx’s work provides a framework for understanding how economic systems shape … Read more
Introduction on Functionalism in Sociology Functionalism is one of the most influential theoretical perspectives in sociology, offering a framework for understanding how societies maintain stability and order. Rooted in the works of early sociologists such as Émile Durkheim, Herbert Spencer, and Talcott Parsons, functionalism examines social structures and institutions in terms of the functions they … Read more