Overview Of Sociology Branches

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As sociology is considered a very popular and fast growing science came into

existence (only after 1839 AD) is vast and broad discipline. It has lots of

specialists so that we can divide it into various sub-divisions on the basis of its

contents.

The main branches of sociology are as follows:

1. Theoretical Sociologist

It includes micro theory or small/middle/large theory. The theories of Karl

Marx, August Cimte, Max Wever, Emmile Durkhaim, Sorokin, etc are studied

under the theories of sociology.

Eg. The theories of “Economic determinism” and the theory of “Class

Struggle” of Karl Marx.

Eg. “Theory of Sucide” by Emmile Durkhaim.

2. Historical Sociology

It is the study of social facts and social groups. It studies the background of

any social events. How and when different social groups or organizations

originated ?

Eg. The history of Hindu, Roman, Greek, etc. and other major civilizations

were studied by P.A. Sorkin.

3. Sociology of Knowledge

The newly emerged branch of sociology indicates that our knowledge is the

product of social phenomena. This means our knowledge is always

influenced by society. The economic religious political and other intrests

save the human belief and idea.

4. Criminology

This branch of sociology studies the criminal behavior of individuals or

groups. Origin of crime its types nature, causes as well as law, punishment,

police, etc. come under this study, The efforts for the improvement is also

studied.

Different organizations establish to control the crime as well as their role

also come under its study.

5. Sociology of Religion

This branch studies the structure of the religion in social system as no

society is free from the influence of it. It analyses the social behavior of

human beings. It also studies the religious constitutions and their role in the

society.

Augste Comte, Emmile Durkheim, Herbet Spencer did the study of

elementary forms of religious life.

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6. Sociology of Economy

This branch of sociology studies production, distribution, consumption and

exchange of goods and services.

This branch also studies the economic activities of the society in which the

focus is given about the socio-cultural factors. The access in production, the

mode of distribution, the real consumers, the role of culture in such activities

are studied under it.

Eg.. “Why Hindus don’t eat Cow?”

7. Rural Sociology

This branch of sociology studies the way of life of rural people as the rural

population is higher than the urban. The patterns of life such as behavior,

belief, culture, tradition norms, values, etc. are totally different than of urban

people. So, it studies the rural society in scientific way. It also studies rural

life, social institutions, social structure, social processes, etc. of the rural

society.

8. Urban Sociology

This branch of sociology studies the way of life of urban people. It gives

information about the social organizations and instution of urban society as

well as social structure and social interaction. It also studies the social

pathology of urban society such as discrimination) crime, corruption,

robbery, beggary, loot, theft, unemployment, prostitution, environmental

pollution, etc.

9. Political Sociology

This branch of sociology studies different political moments of the society. It

includes the study of different political ideology (view), their origin,

development and functions. In this study, different political parties are

considered as social institutions. Various activities and behavior of political

parties are studied in this branch. As they are the part of social system.

10. Sociology of Demography

Demography of scientific mathematical and statically study of population. It

studies about size, situation, composition, density, distribution, and

measurement etc. of the population.

In this branch of sociology, we study the distribution of human population

with the analysis of population change in sociological perspectives. It also

finds out the determining factors of population change and its trend.

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11. Sociology of Law

Sociology of law and legal system are considered as the part of society, as

social institution. Law is one of the very important means of social control.

Law is related with other different social sub systems. Such as economy,

nature of distribution, authority, structure of family kinship relationships, etc.

So, this branch of sociology is related to moral order for the society as

formulation and implementation of rules and regulations, law and order

come under this.

12. Industrial Sociology

This branch of sociology is concerned with the industrial relationship of the

human beings. It studies the different industrial organizations and

institutions. As well as their interrelationship and links with other various

institutions of society. It also studies the inter relationships of industrial

institutions with various aspects of human life such as culture, beliefs,

customs, religion or the way of life.

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Besides the above mentioned various branches of sociology, other different

branches are also emerging day by day as sociology is a very broad social

science. Some of their names are listed below:

Sociology of Family

Sociology of Race

Sociology of Occupation

Sociology of Art

Sociology of literature

Sociology of Peace

Sociology of Development

Sociology of Military

Sociology of Culture

Sociology of Planning

Sociology of Moment

Sociology of Psychology

Sociology of Differentiation

Sociology of Stratification, etc.

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FAQs of Overview of Sociology Branches

What are the main branches of sociology?

The main branches of sociology include theoretical sociology, historical sociology, and criminology. Each branch focuses on different aspects of social life, such as the development of social theories, the historical context of social events, and the study of criminal behavior. Other branches include the sociology of religion, which examines the role of religious institutions in society, and urban sociology, which studies the dynamics of urban life and its challenges. Understanding these branches helps in grasping the complexities of human interactions and societal structures.

How does criminology fit into the study of sociology?

Criminology is a vital branch of sociology that investigates criminal behavior, its causes, and societal responses to crime. It explores the origins and types of crime, examining factors such as social environment, economic conditions, and cultural influences. Additionally, criminology studies the effectiveness of law enforcement, legal systems, and rehabilitation efforts. By analyzing crime through a sociological lens, criminology contributes to developing strategies for crime prevention and social justice.

What is the significance of rural sociology?

Rural sociology focuses on the social structures, behaviors, and institutions of rural communities. It examines how rural lifestyles differ from urban ones, including cultural norms, values, and social interactions. This branch is significant for understanding the unique challenges faced by rural populations, such as access to resources, economic opportunities, and social services. By studying rural sociology, researchers can inform policies that address the needs of these communities and promote sustainable development.

What topics are covered in the sociology of religion?

The sociology of religion studies the relationship between religion and society, analyzing how religious beliefs and institutions influence social behavior and cultural norms. It examines various religious practices, the role of religion in social cohesion, and its impact on social change. Key figures in this field, such as Emile Durkheim and Auguste Comte, have contributed to understanding how religion shapes identity and community. This branch is essential for exploring the complexities of faith in diverse societies.

Overview of Sociology Branches

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