1. Fundamental Sociological Concepts

Sociology relies on several fundamental concepts to analyze social life. These include society (a group of people sharing territory and culture), social interaction (process of reciprocal influence), social structure (stable patterns of social relations), social groups (two or more people interacting), and social institutions (established and enduring patterns of social relationships).

2. Social Stratification (General Concepts)

Social stratification refers to the hierarchical arrangement of individuals and groups in a society based on factors like wealth, income, education, occupation, power, and social status. Systems of stratification, such as caste, class, and estate, influence life chances and social mobility. Understanding stratification helps analyze social inequality and its persistence across generations.

3. Social Institutions (General Concepts)

Social institutions are established and enduring patterns of social relationships and structures that organize fundamental aspects of social life. Major institutions include the family, education system, economy, political system, and religion. Each institution fulfills specific societal needs and functions, shaping individual behavior and societal norms.

4. Culture

Culture encompasses the beliefs, values, norms, behaviors, language, and material objects that are shared by members of a society and passed down from one generation to the next. It shapes our understanding of the world, guides our actions, and provides a sense of shared identity. Culture can be learned, symbolic, shared, and dynamic, constantly evolving through social interaction and historical processes.

5. Socialisation

Socialisation is the lifelong process through which individuals learn the norms, values, beliefs, and behaviors of their society or social group. It is essential for integrating individuals into society and for the transmission of culture across generations. Primary socialization occurs within the family, while secondary socialization takes place in institutions like schools, peer groups, and the workplace.