Question

PSY - Theory: How can theories and research from the field of sociology explain what an ideal society is and assist with developing a healthy society?

Answer 1

Every aspect of human behaviour is a source of possible investigation. Sociologists question the world that humans have created and live in. They notice patterns of behaviour as people move through that world. Using sociological methods and systematic research within the framework of the scientific method and a scholarly interpretive perspective, sociologists have discovered workplace patterns that have transformed industries, family patterns that have enlightened parents, and education patterns that have aided structural changes in classrooms.

Sociologists use empirical evidence combined with the scientific method or an interpretive framework to deliver sound sociological research. Sociologists make use of tried-and-true methods of research, such as experiments, surveys, field research, and textual analysis. These methods help the researcher to prove or formulate theories. Sociologists develop theories to explain social phenomena.

A theory is a supposition or a system of ideas intended to explain something, especially one based on general principles independent of the thing to be explained. These theories can then trickle down to policies and help frame them for betterment of a society.

An ideal society is one without problems, utopia as some may say. But a question arises what is a problem? For some a problem may be a way/part of life that they do not want to give up. For example many people see dwarfism as a disorder but most people with dwarfism suggest that the live with dwarfism and not suffer from it.

Sociological research methods such as surveys and field research help us understand what the perils in society are. These further more tell help us in understanding how people feel about them and how many are affected by this. These help us not only identify what our issues are but also help us define an ideal society , That is the absence if the issues identified.

The ideal society sets a finish line or benchmark to reach as a society. It also functions as template to build and develop to.

As mentioned previously theories tend to trickle down to policy which affects society.

But the role of sociological theories and research doesn’t stop there. Its merely just the starting point. The policy may remove a problem that existed but might create another one .again methods such as research and surveys and field research help us understand the issue and it becomes a cylical process to develop a heathy society which keeps on growing.