Open Educational Resources
Document Type
Textbook
Publication Date
Summer 7-17-2025
Abstract
Abstract:
This chapter explores the profound influence of sociology on understanding community dynamics and its crucial role in societal planning. It reviews how sociological research methods, ranging from qualitative interviews and ethnographic studies to quantitative data analysis, enable researchers to interpret social phenomena, predict trends, and inform policy decisions. Emphasizing the significance of data collection, analysis, and ethical considerations, the chapter highlights the importance of integrating multiple research methods, such as surveys, interviews, experiments, ethnography, and historical analysis, to capture the complexity of human behavior. Through a case study investigating poverty among Black individuals in the United States, the narrative demonstrates the necessity of combining quantitative data with qualitative insights to fully comprehend systemic barriers and disparities. By weaving together theoretical frameworks, methodological rigor, and practical applications, the chapter underscores sociology’s essential contribution to advancing knowledge, fostering equitable social policy, and empowering communities to navigate emerging challenges.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Included in
Educational Sociology Commons, Inequality and Stratification Commons, Other Sociology Commons, Politics and Social Change Commons, Quantitative, Qualitative, Comparative, and Historical Methodologies Commons, Race and Ethnicity Commons, Theory, Knowledge and Science Commons
