Sociological Concepts I: The Microscopic Level of Analysis

Abstract

In this chapter we shall deal with some of the concepts basic to the field of sociology, with the aim of developing a general framework with which to analyse social behaviour in general and South African society in particular. Throughout this discussion it is most important to remember that both the concepts and the framework are simply analytical tools and are not explanatory in themselves. Thus, the danger of reification mentioned earlier must be avoided. Concepts such as ‘role’, #x2018;status#x2019;, and ‘social class’, cannot be used to explain social phenomena on their own and are not real entities. Used within the confines of a theoretical framework, however, they may be useful in the exploration of social behaviour. They also require clear and explicit definition before they are used in this manner.