A: If you find the 1964 edition (Basic Books), the citation is: Inkeles, Alex. What is Sociology? An Introduction to the Discipline and Profession . Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice-Hall, 1964.
In this article, we will explore the core arguments of Inkeles’ work, its structural genius, its limitations in the 21st century, and—most importantly—how to legally and ethically obtain this text in digital format.
Before dissecting the book, we must understand the author. Alex Inkeles (1920–2010) was a towering figure in American sociology. A professor at Stanford University and later a senior fellow at the Hoover Institution, Inkeles was best known for his comparative studies of modernization and personality. what is sociology by alex inkeles pdf
Inkeles defined sociology as the scientific study of human social behavior, relationships, and institutions. He viewed sociology as a discipline that seeks to understand the complex interactions between individuals, groups, and societies. According to Inkeles, sociology aims to analyze social structures, processes, and cultural norms that shape human behavior.
is a seminal introductory textbook by , first published in 1964. It is widely recognized for its structured approach to defining the scope and methods of sociology as a scientific field. Key Concepts and Structure A: If you find the 1964 edition (Basic
A: For theory and methodology, yes—particularly his explanation of social roles and norms. For contemporary issues like digital sociology or global inequality, you will need supplementary texts.
Here, the book moves into groups, collectivities, and institutions. He covers the family, religion, government, and the economy, showing how these systems maintain or disrupt social order. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice-Hall, 1964
But he doesn't stop there. Inkeles breaks sociology down into three distinct modes:
Analyzing what contemporary sociologists are actually studying through research and data.
Defining the study of social systems and their components.