Sociology offers fascinating insights into social life that tell us so much about people and society. But what can we do with those insights? How can we put them to good use? That is exactly what this book is all about. It explores the practical value of sociology, how sociological understanding can be of help in a variety of settings.
Neil Thompson’s wealth of experience in using sociology in practice comes shining through in this clearly written and accessible text that succeeds in conveying complex ideas without oversimplifying them. Key concepts are explained and clear links are drawn with how the ideas can be used to inform professional practice and cast light on a wide range of situations across all sectors of working life, and in our personal lives too.
So, whether you are involved in the helping professions or any other occupation where success depends on having a good understanding of people; a student of sociology wanting to put your learning into practice; or simply interested in how sociology can help address social issues, this book offers a solid foundation of understanding. It is an ideal text for anyone seeking to use sociological ideas to make a positive difference.
Preface
Acknowledgments
About the author
Introduction
Part One: Making Sense of Sociology
Introduction to Part One
Chapter 1: What is sociology?
Introduction
Defining Sociology
Historical Overview
The Sociological Imagination
How Is it Useful?
Who Uses Sociology?
Conclusion
Points to Ponder
Exercise 1
Chapter 2: The Sociological Imagination
Introduction
Thinking Sociologically Revisited
Social Construction
Ideology, Discourse, and Common Sense
Sociology in Action: Praxis
Conclusion
Points to Ponder
Exercise 2
Part Two: Making Sense of Society
Introduction to Part Two: The Web of Society
Chapter 3: Social Structures
What Are Structures?
Social Divisions and Inequality
Structuration Theory and Beyond
Structures and Power
Implications for Practice
Conclusion
Points to Ponder
Exercise 3
Chapter 4: Social Processes
Introduction
Social Construction
Socialization
Communication
Social Control
Institutionalization
Discrimination
Implications for Practice
Conclusion
Points to Ponder
Exercise 4
Chapter 5: Social Institutions
Introduction
Society
The Family
Community
Government
The Law
The Media
Religion
Implications for Practice
Conclusion
Points to Ponder
Exercise 5
Chapter 6: Social Discourses and Ideologies
Introduction
Discourse
Ideology
Discourse and Ideology Compared
Hegemony
The Work Ethic
Implications for Practice
Conclusion
Points to Ponder
Exercise 6
Chapter 7: Social Expectations
Introduction
Symbolic Interactionism
Role Theory
Gender Roles
Culture, Ethnicity, and Race
Act Your Age!
Implications for Practice
Conclusion
Points to Ponder
Exercise 7
Chapter 8: Social Relations
Introduction
Friendship
Love
Groups
Conflict, Aggression and Violence
Abuse and Exploitation
Work Relationships
Implications for Practice
Conclusion
Points to Ponder
Exercise 8
Part Three: Sociologically Informed Practice
Introduction to Part Three
Chapter 9: The individual in Social Context
Introduction
What does it Mean to Be an Individual?
The Role of the Social Context
PCS Analysis Revisited
People, Problems, Potential
Beyond Psychotherapy
Conclusion
Points to Ponder
Exercise 9
Chapter 10: The Organizational Context
Introduction
Organizational Culture
The Changing World of Work
Workplace Well-being
Leadership
Conclusion
Points to Ponder
Exercise 10
Chapter 11: Holistic Practice
Introduction
HOW Is Sociology Useful?
WHO Can Use Sociology?
WHERE Can Sociology Be Used?
WHEN Can Sociology Be Used?
WHAT Can Sociology Offer?
WHY Should You Use Sociology?
Making It Happen
The PATCH Model
Conclusion
Points to Ponder
Exercise 11
Guide to Further Learning
References
Index
Biography
Neil Thompson PhD, DLitt, is an independent writer and educator with over 40 years’ experience in the people professions. He is a sought-after consultant and international conference speaker, and is currently involved in developing a range of online learning resources and surveys. His website and blog are at www.neilthompson.info.
This book is a tour de force! Engaging and accessible, comprehensive in its coverage and scope, Applied Sociology fills a useful gap. With his applied focus and "real world" scenarios, Thompson illustrates how sociological knowledge can be put to effective use in providing both insight and remedy for a wide variety of practical, everyday problems. Whether encountering sociology for the first time or engaging in person-oriented professional practice, readers will find Applied Sociology an indispensable resource.
Michael Brennan, Liverpool Hope University, UK
Applied Sociology offers the theoretical concepts that can be used in real-life situations. No one brings such a vast knowledge of theory and practice as Neil Thompson. When faced with actual situations, theories often take a back seat. Thompson offers not only educators and their students, but also those engaging in various professions ways to use sociology in their work. The practical wisdom contained in this volume will be a major contribution to the field of sociology!
Gerry Cox, Emeritus Professor, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
Wonderfully relevant and readable, this book makes a solid case for the need to recognize sociology as a foundational aspect of the human experience. Clear explanations and examples describe the inseparable interplay between the individual experience within the broader social framework and context. This is a real gem for anyone who wishes to have a greater understanding of the many facets of the human experience.
Darcy Harris, King’s University College at Western University, Canada
Neil Thompson has written a must-read primer raising critical questions that have long concerned those of us in sociology. Could the sociological imagination enhance the professional knowledge base necessary for a more holistic approach for people and their problems? Applied Sociology is a compelling read for all students, regardless of discipline, as well as those preparing for, or immersed in, a "helping profession." Definitely my go-to-text for years to come.
Laurel Hilliker, University of Michigan
This book is destined to be a key text, a "must read," not only for sociologists, but across the humanities, social sciences, social work and health care disciplines.
Jan Pascal, Keele University, UK