Microsociology is a branch of sociology that focuses on the study of small-scale social interactions and individual behavior within specific social contexts. Unlike macrosociology, which examines large-scale social structures and processes, microsociology analyzes the dynamics of face-to-face interactions, group dynamics, and social relationships at the individual level. Key aspects of microsociology include: Symbolic Interactionism: Microsociology…

Mesosociology is an intermediate level of analysis within sociology that focuses on the study of social structures and processes at the meso level, which falls between the micro level of individual interactions and the macro level of large-scale social institutions and systems. Mesosociology examines social phenomena that occur within intermediate-sized social units, such as organizations,…

Macrosociology is a branch of sociology that focuses on studying large-scale social structures, systems, and processes at the level of society as a whole or large social groups. It seeks to understand the broader patterns, trends, and dynamics that shape social life and organization, rather than focusing on individual behavior or small-scale interactions. Key aspects…

Policy sociology is a subfield of sociology that focuses on the study of social policies, their development, implementation, and impact on society. It examines how policies are formulated, enacted, and evaluated within various social, political, and economic contexts, and how they shape social relations, institutions, and outcomes. Key aspects of policy sociology include: Policy Process:…

“Pure sociology” is a term that has been used to refer to a theoretical approach within sociology that aims to develop abstract and general principles or laws about social phenomena. It is sometimes contrasted with “applied sociology,” which focuses on using sociological knowledge to address practical problems or inform social policy. Key aspects of pure…

Queer theory is a critical perspective within sociology, cultural studies, and gender studies that challenges traditional understandings of sexuality, gender, and identity. Emerging in the late 20th century, queer theory critiques binary understandings of sexuality and gender (such as heterosexual/homosexual and male/female) and seeks to deconstruct normative assumptions about sexuality and identity. Key aspects of…

Postcolonialism and subaltern theory are critical approaches within sociology and cultural studies that focus on the legacy of colonialism and imperialism, as well as the experiences and perspectives of marginalized and oppressed groups in colonial and postcolonial societies. These theories highlight the ways in which colonialism has shaped social, political, economic, and cultural structures, and…

Marxism, a foundational theory within sociology and a broader social and political philosophy, was developed by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels in the 19th century. Marxism provides a comprehensive framework for analyzing social relations, historical development, and political economy. One of its central components is social conflict theory, which emphasizes the role of class struggle…

Intersectionality is a theoretical framework developed within feminist theory and critical race theory that highlights the interconnected nature of social identities and systems of oppression. Coined by legal scholar Kimberlé Crenshaw in the late 1980s, intersectionality emphasizes that individuals’ experiences of privilege and oppression are shaped by multiple intersecting axes of identity, such as race,…

Feminist theory is a sociological and interdisciplinary approach that seeks to understand and challenge the social, political, and economic inequalities experienced by women and other marginalized groups based on gender. Feminist theory examines the ways in which gender intersects with other axes of identity, such as race, class, sexuality, and disability, to shape individuals’ experiences…