Under Construction
Sociology
For the purposes of the discussions here we have
defined sociology as the study of social behavior. That study is not
limited to the social behavior of human animals. I have also taken the
position that sociology is a science with quantum aspects.
There have been many statements regarding
sociology. If the discussions here add anything to the existing
understanding of sociology it is because of my multiple experiences and
perspectives. First there is the training in studio painting,
engineering and architecture. These worlds were extended into work in
the worlds of practice and the classroom. However, while I was in these
worlds I was never at the center of them. I always questioned. I have
always been curious.
One of the differences in the discussion here is the emphasis on
testing. I can not recall a time when I was not trying to test sociology
in some wayociology is also under attack. Some of the attacks are subtle and come
from those who may identify themselves as sociologists. Sociology has
been in many cases taken from sociologists. There is not a well
developed use of sociology in practice. In his social problems text Zastrow draws the line. "Once such recommendations are made, it is not
the role of the social sciences to decide which recommendations to
implement (Zastrow, 1988 p16)." Zastrow's definition of the situation is
not rare.
Sociology shares a challenge with Darwin. One of the definitions of
blasphemy is the secularization of sacred. In those situations where
humans are considered sacred secular study such as Darwin or sociology
could be considered blasphemy. When one considers the Adam and Eve
story, which reports that they were kicked out because they eat of the
tree of knowledge, science is a challenge to faith based communities.
There is a further challenge when that science or knowledge it becomes
clear that some believers will reject science.
Several discussions will be posted on these matters, however, the basic
thread will be the core of sociology which I call the general social
theory and its use in practice.
Notes
The Tube and science