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Topic Review
Social Control
Social control refers to the mechanisms, norms, and practices through which societies regulate individual behavior and maintain order. It encompasses both formal institutions such as laws and regulations, as well as informal social norms and expectations. Social control mechanisms serve to reinforce conformity to societal norms, values, and expectations, while also deterring deviant behavior through sanctions and rewards.
  • 677
  • 26 Jan 2024
Topic Review
Social Constructionism
Social constructionism is a theoretical approach in sociology that posits that reality is socially constructed through language, discourse, and social interactions. It asserts that knowledge and meaning are not inherent in objects or phenomena but are instead created and maintained by individuals and societies through shared beliefs, cultural norms, and power dynamics. Social constructionism emphasizes the role of language, symbols, and social context in shaping our understanding of reality and social phenomena.
  • 536
  • 26 Jan 2024
Topic Review
Social Construction of Technology
Social construction of technology (SCOT) is a theory within the field of science and technology studies. Advocates of SCOT—that is, social constructivists—argue that technology does not determine human action, but that rather, human action shapes technology. They also argue that the ways a technology is used cannot be understood without understanding how that technology is embedded in its social context. SCOT is a response to technological determinism and is sometimes known as technological constructivism. SCOT draws on work done in the constructivist school of the sociology of scientific knowledge, and its subtopics include actor-network theory (a branch of the sociology of science and technology) and historical analysis of sociotechnical systems, such as the work of historian Thomas P. Hughes. Its empirical methods are an adaptation of the Empirical Programme of Relativism (EPOR), which outlines a method of analysis to demonstrate the ways in which scientific findings are socially constructed (see strong program). Leading adherents of SCOT include Wiebe Bijker and Trevor Pinch. SCOT holds that those who seek to understand the reasons for acceptance or rejection of a technology should look to the social world. It is not enough, according to SCOT, to explain a technology's success by saying that it is "the best"—researchers must look at how the criteria of being "the best" is defined and what groups and stakeholders participate in defining it. In particular, they must ask who defines the technical criteria success is measured by, why technical criteria are defined this way, and who is included or excluded. Pinch and Bijker argue that technological determinism is a myth that results when one looks backwards and believes that the path taken to the present was the only possible path. SCOT is not only a theory, but also a methodology: it formalizes the steps and principles to follow when one wants to analyze the causes of technological failures or successes.
  • 2.2K
  • 09 Nov 2022
Topic Review
Social Construction of Adolescence and Social networking Sites
Social networking sites (SNS) allow adolescents to post online representations of themselves and exert symbolic (content) and practical (access) control over their online presence. This empowerment in socialization and relation-building capacity has made SNS increasingly popular among adolescents worldwide.
  • 882
  • 24 Jun 2022
Topic Review
Social Conflict
Social conflict refers to the tension, disagreement, or antagonism between individuals or groups within a society arising from opposing interests, values, or actions. It is a fundamental concept in sociology, highlighting the role of power, resources, and societal structures in shaping conflicts that can range from interpersonal disputes to large-scale social movements.
  • 3.6K
  • 26 Jan 2024
Topic Review
Social Complexity
Social complexity refers to the intricate and interconnected nature of social systems, where various elements such as institutions, individuals, and cultural dynamics interact in non-linear and unpredictable ways. It involves the recognition that social phenomena often exhibit emergent properties that cannot be fully understood by analyzing individual components in isolation, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary approaches to grasp the complexity of social structures and behaviors.
  • 639
  • 26 Jan 2024
Topic Review Peer Reviewed
Social Cohesion: Definitions, Causes and Consequences
Viewed as the glue that binds societies, social cohesion is considered an essential ingredient to address common societal challenges. Definitions and associated conceptual frameworks usually summarise social cohesion as collective attributes and behaviours characterised by positive social relations, a sense of identification or belonging, and an orientation towards the common good. However, there are a large variety of definitions, and disagreement exists about what constitutes the core components, causes and consequences of social cohesion.
  • 863
  • 30 Aug 2023
Topic Review
Social Cohesion
Social cohesion refers to the degree of unity, solidarity, and social bonds within a society or community. It encompasses the sense of belonging, trust, and cooperation among individuals and groups, contributing to social stability, resilience, and well-being. Social cohesion is essential for fostering a harmonious and inclusive society where individuals can collaborate, support one another, and collectively address societal challenges.
  • 1.2K
  • 26 Jan 2024
Topic Review
Social Closure
Social closure refers to the process by which groups or social categories seek to establish and maintain boundaries to protect their privileged position and restrict access to resources, opportunities, or social status. This phenomenon involves mechanisms such as exclusion, discrimination, or credentialism, aimed at preserving the advantages of certain groups while limiting the mobility and opportunities of others. Social closure can manifest in various domains, including education, employment, and social institutions, contributing to social stratification and inequality within societies.
  • 617
  • 08 Feb 2024
Topic Review
Social Class
Social class refers to a hierarchical arrangement of individuals in a society based on factors such as economic status, occupation, education, and cultural capital. It delineates distinct social groups with varying levels of privilege, influencing access to resources, opportunities, and societal advantages.
  • 1.1K
  • 26 Jan 2024
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