
20th-century sociology
20th-century sociology emerged as a systematic study of society, focusing on social behaviors, institutions, and structures. Influential thinkers like Émile Durkheim, Max Weber, and Karl Marx explored how social forces shape individual actions and vice versa. The field expanded to include diverse topics such as race, gender, class, and globalization. Sociologists employed various methods, from surveys to ethnography, to understand social dynamics. This century saw sociology become crucial for addressing social issues and informing public policy, enhancing our understanding of the complexities of modern life and the interplay between individual and society.