The social interactions that occur within the groups to which people belong and those groups themselves impact how people behave. Because we happen to live in a specific civilization at a particular point in space and time, we are who we are and behave the way we do. Sociology examines how social institutions like the family, the classroom, and others affect people’s personal growth. It also offers vital perspectives and insight into how to address social issues.
The social environment is one of sociology’s primary areas of interest. According to the chapter, the social climate encompasses gender, color, nation, economic status, familial background, and location of residence. These social influences influence people’s lives by controlling their thoughts, values, and views towards various topics such as family, work, diversity, political systems, education, and more. There are numerous instances where the social environment affects people’s thoughts, including the Trayvon Martin shooting.
Talking about my personal experience, I would like to mention the influence of my family and school environment on shaping my personality and interests. My parents, who did not have the opportunity to get a higher education, greatly appreciate earning a college/university degree. That is why I was put under pressure from my childhood to get higher grades. As a result, I was accepted to a science-oriented school. Students of this school were mainly accepted to the universities and shared the view of moving to the big cities rather than staying in their hometowns. They were also more study-orientated, keen on reading about politics and research rather than spending their weekend at parties, as students from other local schools preferred. During my school days, many of my friends liked to watch anime and K-dramas and listen to K-pop music, which affected my tastes. That is how my personality was formed. Now I am a university science student who wants to continue my studies further and pursue a master’s degree, dreaming of living in a big city abroad with a high interest in K-pop and anime.
In conclusion, sociology is a field of study that deepens our understanding of and analyzes the social structures, cultural practices, and institutions that significantly influence our daily lives and the course of human history.