In sociology, there are three main paradigms: the functionalist paradigm, the conflict paradigm, and the symbolic interactionist paradigm. These are not all of the paradigms, however, and we’ll consider others as well as more specific topic-based variations of each of the “Big Three” theories.

At the heart of sociology is the sociological perspective, the view that our social backgrounds influence our attitudes, behavior, and life chances. In this regard, we are not just individuals but rather social beings deeply enmeshed in society.

A phenomenon (Greek: φαινόμενον, romanized: phainómenon, lit. ‘thing appearing to view’; plural phenomena) is an observable fact or event. The term came into its modern philosophical usage through Immanuel Kant, who contrasted it with the noumenon, which cannot be directly observed.

Explanation: The observable facts or events that involve human society are Social phenomena whereas Social science is a discipline that involves the detailed scientific study of the social behavior of humans and related functions involving interpersonal skills in society. This study helps in understanding society.

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Sociologists are mainly interested in social interaction how people relate to one another and influence each other’s behavior. Sociologists tend to focus on groups rather than individual by examining a social phenomena – an observable fact or event.

The primary reason sociologists study groups is because of their power over individuals. A large body of research suggests that group membership strongly shapes the everyday behavior of individuals. Following are some of the many ways groups shape individual level behavior.

Although sociologists do study what are commonly regarded as social problems—crime, drug addiction, and poverty, for example—they also examine fundamental social processes present in any society: social change, conflict and inequality.

The role of the Sociologist is to research the way society is organized around power structures, groups and individuals. Sociology can study society with a wide variety of focuses. Many people do not realize that sociology actually has a profound impact on society both in an overt manner as well as behind the scenes.

One of the most important ethical guidelines in sociological and other human-subject research concerns privacy and confidentiality. When they do research, sociologists should protect the privacy and confidentiality of their subjects.

Ethical considerations

• Informed consent.
• Voluntary participation.
• Do no harm.
• Confidentiality.
• Anonymity.
• Only assess relevant components.

Ethics deals with such questions at all levels. Its subject consists of the fundamental issues of practical decision making, and its major concerns include the nature of ultimate value and the standards by which human actions can be judged right or wrong. The terms ethics and morality are closely related.

The 5 Biggest Ethical Issues Facing Businesses

1. Accounting. “Cooking the books” and otherwise conducting unethical accounting practices is a serious problem, especially in publicly traded companies.
2. Social Media.
3. Harassment and Discrimination.
4. Health and Safety.
5. Technology/Privacy.