Sociology (SOCI)

Faculty

Assistant Professors Jacobs and Lovern

Sociology is a perspective on and the study of social life. Humans are first and foremost social animals who organize themselves into a variety of social forms depending on social and historical circumstances. A necessary condition for full participation in social life is the ability to understand, explain and evaluate these social forms or societies.

Sociology is the scientific and critical study of how and why modern societies operate the way they do, including the relationships among the various social institutions; how and why societies influence what individuals can do, including the development of self; and how and why individuals produce and reproduce (socially construct) social life through everyday activities. This means that students who study sociology at Piedmont College ought to develop several sensitivities: critical, cultural, historical and moral.

No matter what social roles a person plays throughout life, an appreciation of the sociological perspective will be of benefit. The ability to perform these various roles will be enhanced because of five things. The first is the ability to think sociologically, to identify the various social forces or conditions which hinder or help. The second is the ability to relate the criminal justice system to the broader society of which it is a part. The third is the ability to solve problems, to use acquired analytical and research skills. The fourth is the ability to appreciate and understand the diversity of cultures. The fifth is the ability to use the sociological perspective to make the world a better place for all individuals.

Course Descriptions