Sociology investigates groups, societies, and social interactions. A group consists of two or more people who interact regularly. Sociologists analyze both micro-level (small groups) and macro-level (large societies)
Society is regularities and customs of human behavior. Society exists where social beings behave toward each other. Society is universal and pervasive, not limited to humans. Society is abstract, connotes complex of human relationships
Society viewed as complex system where parts work together for solidarity and stability. Society functions like organisms, with parts working together to maintain equilibrium. Social structures consist of interconnected statuses and roles. Individuals significant through their status and social relations
Sociological imagination enables critical thinking away from daily routines. C. Wright Mills defined it as awareness of society's relationship with experience. Mills' 1959 book reconciled individual and society concepts
Theme is central message or idea conveyed through literary works. Theme appears in all types of literature: short stories, novels, poetry. Theme helps author explore universal ideas in texts