Rural Sociology
Rural Sociology
Rural Sociology
Emergence of sociology
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The first social scientist to use the term sociology
was a Frenchman by the name of Auguste Comte.
As coined by Comte, the term sociology is a
combination of two words.
The first part of the term is a Latin socius- that may
variously mean society, association, togetherness or
companionship.
The other word logos is of Greek origin. It is
literally means to speak about or word.
However, the term is generally understood
as study or science (Indrani,1998).
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Thus, the etymological, literal definition of sociology
is that it is the word or speaking about society.
A simple definition here is that it is the study of
society and culture.
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The discipline was more firmly established by such
theorists as EmileDurkheim, Karl Marx and Max
Weber (Nobbs, Hine and Flemming, 1978).
the concepts “society” and “culture” are central in
sociology.
Society generally refers to the social world with all its
structures, institutions, organizations, etc around us,
and specifically to a group of people who live within
some type of bounded territory and who share a
common way of life. this common way of life
shared by a group of people is termed as culture.
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in addition to this etymological definition of the term,
we need to have other substantive definitions:
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Thus, sociology may be generally defined as a social
science that studies such kinds of phenomena as:
The structure & function of society as a system;
The nature, complexity and contents of human
social behavior;
The fundamentals of human social life;
Interaction of human beings with their external
environment;
The indispensability of social interactions for human
development;
How the social world affects us, etc.
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A more formal definition of sociology may be that:
it is asocial science which studies the processes and
patterns of human individual and group interaction,
the forms of organization of social groups, the
relationship among them, and group influences on
individual behavior, and vice versa, and the
interaction between one social group and the other
(Team of Experts, 2000).
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1.2. Scope and Concerns of Sociology
The scope of sociology is extremely wide ranging,
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Sociologists are primarily interested in human
beings as they appear in social interaction and the
effects of this interaction on human behavior.
Such interaction can range from the first physical
contacts of the new born baby with its mother to a
philosophical discussion at an international
conference, from a casual passing on the street to
the most intimate of human relationships (World Book
Encyclopedia 1994).
Sociologists are interested to know what processes
lead to these interactions, what exactly occurs when
they take place, and what their short run and long run
consequences are.
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The major systems or units of interaction that
interest sociologists are social groups such as the
family or peer groups;
social relationships, such as social roles and dyadic
relationships,
Sociologists are keen to understand, explain, and
analyze the effect of social world, social
environment and social interaction on our behavior,
worldviews, lifestyle, personality, attitudes,
decisions, etc., as creative, rational, intelligent
members of society; and how we as such create the
social reality.
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1.3. The importance of Learning Sociology
Generally, learning sociology provides us with what
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learning sociology helps to cast aside our own
biased assumptions, stereotypes and ethno-centric
thinking and practices to become more critical,
broad- minded and respectful in our interpersonal
and inter- group relationships. By learning sociology,
we can be more humane and people – centered; we
give high value to human dignity.
In general, sociology increases our self-knowledge,
provide us with self- enlightenment, increase our
knowledge about the conditions of our own lives,
and about the way our society and social system
function.
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In addition to the aforementioned theoretical
benefits, sociology has certain practical benefits.
There is what we call applied sociology, the
application of sociological knowledge, principles,
methods, concepts and theories to provide the
solutions to the contemporary social pathologies.
Sociology plays practical roles to tackle social
pathologies.
Sociological knowledge is highly applicable in
dealing with today's most crucial social problems,
and in facilitating developmental activities in
socioeconomic sectors.
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1.4. Levels of Sociological Analysis
There are generally two levels of analysis in sociology,
which may also be regarded as branches of sociology:
Micro-sociology is interested in small- scale level of
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Macro-sociology focuses on the broad features of
society.
The goal of macro-sociology is to examine the large-
scale social phenomena that determine how social
groups are organized and positioned within the
social structure.
Some writers also add a third level of analysis called
meso-level analysis, which analyzes human social
phenomena in between the micro- and macro-levels.
Based on their particular academic interest
sociologists may prefer one form of analysis to the
other; but all levels of analysis are useful and
necessary for a fuller understanding of social life in
society.
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2. The major theoretical perspectives in
sociology
Sociology as science employs perspectives or
theories to understand, explain, analyze and
interpret social phenomena.
To interpret social facts, they must be
subjected to a theoretical framework.
theory is defined as a set of interconnected
hypotheses that offer general explanations
for natural or social phenomena.
“perspectives” and “schools of thought” are
often used interchangeably with the term
“theory”.
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There are three major theoretical perspectives in
sociology that have provided an overall framework
for sociological studies.
structural- functionalism, social conflict theory and
symbolic interactionist.
2.1. The Structural-Functionalist Theory
This is one of the dominant theories both in
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The theory tries to explain how the relationships
among the parts of society are created and how these
parts are functional (meaning having beneficial
consequences to the individual and the society) and
dysfunctional (meaning having negative
consequences).
It focuses on consensus, social order, structure and
function in society.
This theory sees society as a complex system
whose parts work together to promote solidarity
and stability.
it states that our social lives are guided by social
structure, which are relatively stable patterns of
social behavior (Macionis,1997).
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The functional aspect in the structural-functionalist theory
stresses the role played by each component part in the
social system, whereas the structural perspective suggests
an image of society wherein individuals are constrained by
the social forces, social backgrounds and by group
memberships.
The major terms and concepts developed by anthropologists
and sociologists in this theory include (or the theory focuses
on): order, structure, function (manifest or direct functions
and latent or hidden, indirect functions), and equilibrium.
The theory was criticized for its emphasis on stability and
order while neglecting conflict and changes which so vital in
any society.
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2.2. The Social Conflict Theory
This theory is also called Marxism; to indicate that
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2.3. Symbolic Interactionism
This theory was advanced by such American
social life.
Symbols are things to which we attach meanings.
The theory stresses the analysis of how our
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No. theory What does it state? Key concepts Its weaknesses
1. Structural Sees society as a complex Consensus, social Emphasis on stability and order
Functionalis system whose parts work order, structure and while neglecting conflict and
m together to promote solidarity function in society. changes which so vital in any
and stability society
2. Social Sees society in a framework of Class conflict; For its overemphasis on inequality
conflict class conflicts and focuses on alienation; and division, for neglecting the fact
theory the struggle for scarce competition; of how shared values and
resources by different groups domination interdependence generate unity
in a given society among members of society; it is
also criticized for its explicit
political goals.
3. Symbolic Stresses the analysis of how Symbols; Too much emphasis on micro- level
interaction our behaviors depend on how processes; analysis; neglect of larger social
we define others and ourselves. interaction; processes
It concentrates on process, meaning
rather than structure, and keeps
the individual actor at the
center.
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3. Methods of sociological research
The Scientific Method Inductive vs. Deductive
Approaches
Sociology is a science.
As such, it is concerned with systematically
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3. testing the hypothesis through research and further
observation…” (Howard and Dunaif-Hattis,1992)
Sociology as a science employs the two very
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Deductive method is the method by researcher
attempts to derive specific assertions and claims
from a general theoretical principle. This
approach moves from the general to the
particular.
As a science, the primary aim of sociology is
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These steps are not, however, typical to sociology
alone. It should also be noted that these steps are
not fixed ones. Some steps may not necessarily be
followed in some research projects. The steps may
not necessarily be put in sequential order.
1. Identification of Research Problems
The first step in doing sociological research is to
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The research interests of sociologists are, often,
triggered by their own life experiences and
observations (Howard and Dunaif-Hattis, 1992).
The initial ideas for research thus may occur at any
time and place for a researcher. Walking down a
street, reading through newspapers, watching
television, etc
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Once a research topic comes to our mind, we should
ask the following questions:
Is it researchable?
Is it sociologically/ socially significant?
What is new about it?
What gap will it fill?
Is it manageable in terms of time, money, expertise
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2. Literature Review
This step involves familiarizing or orienting yourself with
the concepts, theories and the works already done
pertaining to the topic identified.
Relevant available literature on the topic chosen should
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3. Hypothesis Formulation
Hypothesis is a statement that can be proved to be
in this step.
The type of research may determine whether
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4. Selections and Designing of Methods of Data
Collection
Here the researcher determines data collection
methods and prepares data collection instruments.
There are generally two categories of methods:
Quantitative methods and qualitative methods.
Quantitative methods focus on measuring quantity
of information. prevalence, scope, percentage, frequency, magnitude, etc
qualitative methods focus on depth and quality of
information. belief, attitudinal and knowledge dimensions etc
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5. Conducting Data Gathering Activity
the step in which the researcher engages in
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secondary data are those which are already
collected by some one else found in various sources
as documents or archives. official statistical documents, mass media
sources (such as electronic media radio, television, films, etc; and print media such
as newspapers, magazines, journals, posters, brochures, leaflets, sign broads, etc.)
methods of data collection in sociology include:
Surveys one of the dominant quantitative
techniques is the survey method, which involves
sampling, impersonal data collections, and
sophisticated statistical analysis.
In survey research, people who provide information
are termed as respondents
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respondents are often selected on random
sample basis, wherein all members of a population
have equal chances of being included in the study
population.
There are three types of survey research:
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Longitudinal survey is conducted on the
same
type of people over long period of time as
long as sometimes 20 to 30 years.
panel surveys, which are alternative
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Experimentation: This quantitative method is
sometimes used in sociology.
Key Informant Interview: This is a qualitative
method in which a knowledgeable person in study
site or community is contacted and interviewed by
the researcher or data collector.
Focus Group Discussion: This is a form of
qualitative data collection method in which intends
to make use of the explicit interaction dynamic
among group members which may yield important
information on certain topic.
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Case Study: This method involves investigating a certain issue
as a case taking longer time and investigating the phenomenon
in depth.
Observation: This qualitative method involves collecting data on
quantitative methods
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7. Dissemination of Research Findings
the final step in which the researcher shares the
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5. Definition of rural sociology
Rural sociology is a branch of sociology.
society.
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5.1. Origin and development of rural Sociology
Rural sociology as an organized discipline is of
recent origin.
It was originated in USA and gradually its
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5.2. Importance of rural sociology (Why Rural sociology? )
Ethiopian population are predominantly consists of
farmers.
World population is largely rural.
Similarly urban population consists of people from
rural background.
To study the farmer and its group relationships in
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To study the values, beliefs and attitudes of people,
regarding adoption rate or acceptance of innovation.
To understand communication and adoption of
technology and information source.
To understand Stratification and mobility.
To understand indigenous knowledge system.
To understand government and farmers’
relationships
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5.3. Scope of rural sociology
1. Rural community: the characteristics, special features and ecology of
the village community.
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8. Rural demography: the population growth, rural to urban and rural to rural
migration of the people.
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6. Society and Culture
6.1 The concept of Society
It is an autonomous grouping of people who inhabit a
community.
The common tendency in sociology has been to
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6.2 Basic Features of a Society
1. Relatively large grouping of people in terms of size.
society may be regarded as the largest and the most
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4.The people who make up a society have the feeling
of identity and belongingness. There is also the
feeling of oneness.
5.Members of a society are considered to have a
common origin and common historical
experience. They feel that they have also common
destiny.
6.Members of a society may also speak a common
mother tongue or a major language that may
serve as a national heritage.
7. A society is autonomous and independent in the
sense that it has all the necessary social institutions and
organizational arrangements to sustain the system.
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6.3. The Concept of Culture
common people often misuse the concept of culture.
It refers to the whole ways of life of the members of
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6.4. Basic Characteristics of Culture
1. Culture is organic and supra-organic.
2. Culture is overt and covert.
3. Culture is explicit and implicit.
4. Culture is shared and learned.
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6.5. Role of culture in Extension
1. Community development aims at bringing about
the changes in the culture of rural people towards
desired goals.
2. Scientific understanding of the culture is therefore
basic.
3. It is possible to record greater success when the
improved practices introduced are in familiar terms.
4. Change is more likely to occur in those aspects of
culture where there is lack of adjustment or
stress,
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Change in technology usually more readily
accounted than change in other aspects of culture.
6.6. Different cultural concepts
I. Ethnocentrism
refers to the preferential feeling we have for the
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II. Cultural Relativism
Every society has its own culture, which is more or
less unique.
Every culture contains its own unique pattern of
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Respect for cultural differences involves:
• Appreciating cultural diversity.
• Accepting and respecting other cultures.
• Trying to understand every culture and its elements
in terms of its own context and logic.
Cultural relativism may be regarded as the opposite
of ethnocentrism.
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7. Social institutions
It is an interrelated system of social roles and social
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Its important functions
a. Perpetuation of the welfare of society.
b. Preservation and maintenance of the form of
society.
c. Meeting the major needs of the members of
society.
A society is functionally integrated and held
together by social institutions.
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Social institutions are universal.
They vary from time to time and across cultures, in
terms of complexity, specialization, scope, formality
and organization. But their basic nature and purpose
are similar everywhere.
These features are particularly true regarding the five
major social institutions discussed below.
Social institutions are resistant to change; they tend
to persist. However, once a change occurs in
particular social institution, it tends to affect the other
institutions as well.
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I. Family and its functions
Family is a biological as well as a social group.
Family is a relatively permanent group of persons
social institutions.
The family is considered so important to individuals
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III. Religious institutions and their function
Sociologists define religion as a system of beliefs and
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IV. Political institutions
Politics is the process by which people gain muse
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Functions of political Institutions
Establishing rules and regulations that
societies
Ensuring peace and security of societies
and etc…
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V. Educational institutions and their Functions
The educational institution is the social structure
institutions.
Nearly 3 of every 10 people in the United States are
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Function of educational institutions
Cultural reproduction
Social control
Assimilation
Training and development
Selection and allocation
Promotion of change
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8. Socialization
In any society there are socially recognized ways in
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It is an on-going, never ending process- from cradle
to the grave.
From the point of view of individual persons,
especially a newly born baby, socialization is a
process whereby a biological being or organism is
changed into a social being.
Socialization may be formal or informal. It becomes
formal when it is conducted by formally organized
social groups and institutions, like schools, religious
centers, mass media universities, work places,
military training centers, internships, etc.
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It is informal when it is carried out through the
informal social interactions and relationships at
micro-levels, at interpersonal and small social group
levels.
The most important socialization for us is that we
get through informal agents like family, parents,
neighborhood and peer group influences. It has a
very powerful influence, whether negative or
positive, in our lives.
Whether it is formal or informal, is vitally important to
both individuals and society.
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4.1. Types of socialization
Sociologists generally distinguish three types of
socialization: primary socialization, anticipatory
socialization, and re socialization.
a) Primary socialization
Early childhood socialization
It is primary in two senses.
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b) Secondary or Adult Socialization
While socialization is an overbidding issue for
sometimes be intense.
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c) Anticipatory socialization:
As we progress from infancy to old age, we must
continually shed old roles and adopt new ones.
Many of these role changes are relatively easy
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THE END
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