What is the common consensus among most sociologists regarding the definition of Sociology?

Most sociologists agree that Sociology is the study of society or the science of society.

How are the numerous definitions of Sociology generally categorized for ease of learning?

The definitions are categorized into four main groups: as the study of society, the study of social interaction, the study of social relations, and the study of social groups.

According to Emile Durkheim, what is Sociology defined as in terms of collective representation?

Durkheim defined Sociology as the science of collective representations (सामूहिक प्रतिनिधानों), consciousness, or social facts.

What is the primary distinction between the two main schools defining the scope of Sociology?

The Formalistic School views Sociology as an independent and specific science, whereas the Synthetic/Substantive School views it as a general science.

Who is considered the proponent or father of the Formalistic School (स्वरूपात्मक संप्रदाय) of Sociology's scope?

The German sociologist George Simmel is considered the proponent of the Formalistic School.

What concept did Sorokin define Sociology by, which falls outside the four main categorization keywords?

Sorokin defined Sociology as the study of socio-cultural phenomena (सामाजिक सांस्कृतिक प्रघटनाओं).

SOCIOLOGY, Definition and Scope of Sociology, Teacher Eligibility Test Class - 1 ASSISTANT PROFESSOR

Sociology Definitions & Scope
📌 The core definition agreed upon by most sociologists is that Sociology is the study or science of society.
📌 Sociological definitions are categorized into four main parts based on keywords: study of society, social interaction, social relations, and social groups.
📌 The scope of Sociology is primarily divided into two major schools of thought: Formalistic (or Specific) School and Synthetic School.

Schools of Thought in Sociology Scope
📌 The Formalistic/Specific School advocates that Sociology is an independent and distinct science. Its pioneer/proponent is considered to be Georg Simmel.
📌 Supporters of the Formalistic School include Von Wiese, Max Weber, Virkandt, and Tönnies.
📌 The Synthetic School views Sociology as a general science, arguing that studying only a specific aspect of society is insufficient for accurate understanding. Key proponents include Durkheim, Hobhouse, Ginsberg, and Sorokin.

Key Sociologist Definitions & Concepts
📌 Émile Durkheim defined Sociology as the study of collective representations (or norms/rules), social institutions, and social processes. His famous book is *The Rules of Sociological Method* (1895), where he defined Sociology as the science of social facts.
📌 Max Weber defined Sociology as the science that attempts to provide an analytical understanding of social action (or social interaction).
📌 Kimball Young defined Sociology as the study of human behavior in groups, though he is also noted for defining it as the study of human/man's behavior.
📌 Pareto defined society as a social system/arrangement where all parts are interconnected and mutually dependent. His concept is detailed in his book, *Mind and Society*.

Key Points & Insights
➡️ Memorizing definitions is challenging due to variety; focus on keywords (e.g., 'Social Interaction', 'Social Facts', 'Social Relations') for quick identification in exams.
➡️ Students must diligently create and revise class notes/self-notes by constantly repeating these concepts, as definitions and statements are common, difficult areas in competitive exams.
➡️ Culture vs. Civilization: Culture is intangible/abstract (like rules, emotions), while Civilization is tangible/material (like tools, buildings, objects that can be seen and touched).

📸 Video summarized with SummaryTube.com on Jan 05, 2026, 14:40 UTC

SOCIOLOGY, Definition and Scope of Sociology, Teacher Eligibility Test Class - 1 ASSISTANT PROFESSOR

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