Introduction to Sociology

Abstract

This printed provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of sociology by exploring its fundamental concepts, scope, research methods, major theories, and key contributors. It begins by defining sociology, explaining its importance, characteristics, and relationship with other social sciences. The book then examines the scope of sociology and the scientific methods used in sociological research, including quantitative, qualitative, and mixed approaches, while emphasizing research ethics. It also presents the contributions of prominent sociologists such as Ibn Khaldun, Auguste Comte, Karl Marx, Émile Durkheim, Max Weber, and Talcott Parsons. Furthermore, the book discusses major sociological theories, including functionalism, conflict theory, symbolic interactionism, structuralism, and contemporary perspectives. Finally, it explores the concepts of social structure and social systems, as well as the processes, causes, agents, and consequences of social change, providing readers with a solid foundation for understanding society and social phenomena.