The Emergence of Sociology: From Philosophy to Scientific Discipline

The Birth of Sociology as a Science

Intellectual Context for Sociology's Emergence

Between 1750 and 1850, a scientific study of society emerged, adapting methodologies from the natural sciences. Isaac Newton's foundational work in science inspired the belief that similar rigorous methodologies could be applied to understand social phenomena. A key element was the adoption of the scientific method.

Events like the American War of Independence and the French Revolution highlighted the need for a deeper understanding of social processes. Several thinkers contributed their insights, prompting questions about the nature of society and the emergence of sociology:

• Hegel's Idealism: Hegel's theories influenced later philosophical and social thought, including that of Karl Marx.
• Saint-Simon: His ideas significantly influenced the emerging theories of Auguste Comte, often considered the 'father of sociology'.

Social Context and the Rise of Social Problems

Discoveries of new lands challenged existing societal norms and beliefs. The aim was to apply the same rigorous methodology from natural sciences to social studies.

The emergence of 'social problems,' particularly poverty, became a significant focus. Initially, poverty was often viewed as a natural, divinely ordained condition, suggesting it was an unchangeable aspect of society.

Early Sociological Approaches and Influences

• Encyclopedias: Aimed to document and categorize all dimensions of human knowledge and life.
• Evolutionary Thought: Posited that societies progress through stages. This perspective gained significant momentum with Darwin's theory of evolution in 1859.
• Positive Science (Positivism): Adopted physics as its primary working model, followed by biology. This approach often conceptualized society as a living organism.

Sociology as a Scientific Discipline

A discipline is considered scientific based on its methodology (the scientific method) and its objectives.

Key Features of the Scientific Method in Sociology

• Concerned with empirical evidence.
• Emphasizes objectivity: Findings can be reviewed, verified, and contrasted.

Core Objectives of Scientific Inquiry in Sociology

Scientific intent aims to achieve:

• An accurate description of social phenomena.
• Explanation through general propositions: To identify broader laws governing phenomena, extending beyond individual cases. For example, addressing school violence requires looking beyond the school itself, seeking answers in broader social and family contexts.