What is Sociology?
Sociology is the study of human society. It takes into account the economic, political, cultural,
and environmental forces which shape our world and our lives in the world.
Such forces encompass a vast array of subjects such as inequality, poverty, power, crime and deviance, culture,
ethnicity, race, gender, gerontology, health care, demography, religion, social change, technology, and the environment to name a few.
Because of its breadth, Sociology is a valuable major and minor in the liberal arts setting. A degree in Sociology can enhance career opportunities in criminology, business, law, education, social research, demography, human service and social work, community planning, or social psychology. Typically sociologists specialize their research and teaching in one or several areas of interest. The Department of Sociology at Otterbein College has faculty with wide ranging interests that can assist students in developing interests in a variety of areas.
