Why study sociology

Is it even practical to study sociology? Sociology is much more than just the study of society and social structures. It’s a dicpline focusing on understanding human actians, social interaction and social change. Due to this sociology as a science faces a special challenge because the subject itself is part of society. This poses the following question: how do you observe something that’s always there? How can you observe something if the scientist themself is part of it?

Studying sociology can result in questioning the obvious, the “normal”. Many things in our daily life can seem “natural”- grades being the way to observe the achievements in schools, red roses symbolising love, dressing a certain way for special occiasions and so much more. These social norms, institutions and even how we act is shaped by society. But this means that they are not so natural and self-evident as they seem. We act and think based on social facts, our normalcy.

Studying sociology will help you sharpend a sociological view on the world, we will try to explain social phenomenons with the help of different conceps of theory and try to empirically study society. During this we are constantly reflecting our own position in all of this, as you are not able to split yourself from the society that is our object of consideration.

The following list holds some points why you should consider studying sociology:

  1. A look into society: Sociology offers a deep look into how societies can work and do work. It helps understanden social struggles, discovers inequality and mechanisms of social change and analyses them
  2. Critical thinking: Sociology can help to sharpen critical thinking and supports analytical thinking about complex social phenomenons. Due to their reserach on different perspectives and theories, students can develop the skills to analyse social problems from various points of view.
  3. Practical use: Sociological insights can be used in many different jobs. This includes, naming only a few, education, research, public administration, market research, entertainment, media and cultural organisations. Finishing a degree in sociology opens the door to a multitude of career opportunities.
  4. Understanding cultural diversity:  Because sociology takes a closer look at many diverse cultures, value systems and ways of life it can help to develop a deeper understanding for the diversity and complexity evident in societies around the world.

One special aspect about sociology is its interdiciplinary nature and its ability to explain complex social connections. It combines elements of anthropology, psychology, political sciences and econmy to acchieve a comprehensive understanding of human societies. Studying sociology offers the understanding of the social world that sorrounds us and can help expand our own horizon.