Q#1:Define sociology and discuss it’s importance ?

Ans: The science that deals with the study of society and the social interactions taking place
therein is termed SOCIOLOGY. It is concerned with the study of human societies and of human
behavior in social settings. As a discipline, sociology undertakes a scientific study of man's
behavior as a consequence of his being a member of a social group.

Importance of Sociology:
Sociology is important to the individual and the society for a number of reasons, to wit:

1. The factual information obtained through rigorous research enables us to better

understand our society and other societies. As we gain knowledge about our society
and other societies as well, we become more understanding, broad-minded, and
tolerant.

2. It enables us to learn the application of scientific methods and techniques to our daily
life problems. The steps of procedures in sociological inquiry can be useful guides in the
resolution of the problems we encounter in our life.

3. It enables us to see the connection between our own personal experiences and the
social forces in the bigger social world daily which influence life. It helps us lessen our
feelings of trapness, frustrations and helplessness against the social forces which
influence our life.

4. It furnishes interested people and specialized sciences with principles and scientific
data which they can use in their work. The principles which govern society and social
behavior as well as the scientific information gathered by sociologist are utilized by
psychologists, historians, businessmen, politicians, church people, and educators in
their work.

5. It undertakes scientific sociological researches and inquiry on immediate and

contemporary social problems. Sociologists and social scientists undertake scientific
investigations on many social issues and concerns like puberty, drug addiction,
prostitutions, criminality, and others.

6. It has made great strides in the study of criminology, ethnic relations, social
processes, the family, population and collective behavior. Much information and data
have been gathered to provide a more valid understanding of the many aspects of
human social life.

7. It provides insights into the interrelationship of human beings within the group so that
we may live in harmony with others. Sociology provides us with the ideas of cultural
relativism, cultural diversity, human interdependence, mutuality and reciprocity, social
consciousness and social responsibility which could bring about harmony and peaceful
coexistence between and among peoples.
 2

8. The results of sociological investigations provide a better background for meeting and
solving social problems. Lawmakers employ sociologists to undertake sociological
studies on particular social problems before they propose a bill that would address the
problem.

9. The results of sociological inquiry can help dispel popular myths, superstitions, and
stereotypes with accurate knowledge about human behavior and human societies. For
instance, studies have helped disprove the notion that most poor people have been
poor and will always be poor.

10. It broadens our experience as we learn to discard our prejudices and biases as we
become more understanding and tolerant of the customs of other people.

11. Results of sociological investigations are useful to government officials, community

leaders, entrepreneurs, businessmen, industrialists, educators, church leaders, and law
enforcers in the maintenance of peace and order and planning programs and projects
for progress and welfare of the people.

References
www.imbalife.com/sociology