Sociology is the scientific study of human life and social groups. It examines how societies interact and shape social relationships. Sociology uses scientific inquiry to explain social phenomena
Social environment encompasses immediate physical and social settings where people live. Includes culture, institutions, and interactions with people and communities. Physical environment encompasses natural world, weather, land, and resources. Social relations involve interactions between people, including family and work
Born in Berlin in 1858 to Jewish family, adopted by Peters Verlag founder. Studied philosophy and history at Humboldt University, earning doctorate in 1881. Became privatdozent at Berlin University, lecturing on various social sciences. Co-founded German Society for Sociology in 1909. Died from liver cancer in Strasbourg in 1918