Sociology

The sociological imagination refers to the ability to see the world as a sociologist would: that is, by viewing individuals and relationships in terms of social structures, institutions, values, and norms. Usually, the sociological imagination addresses squarely the concepts of race, class, gender, and social power. One of the premier American philosophers of the early twentieth century, W.E.B. DuBois had an active sociological imagination. DeBois recognized the relationship between race and social status; between race and socio-economic class; and also between gender and social power. As a co-founder of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), W.E.B. DuBois foresaw the means by which African-Americans could recognize institutional racism and overcome it. Moreover, DuBois understood the importance of personal and collective identity, especially as identity relates to race, class, gender, and social status. In his premier sociological treatise, The Souls of Black Folk, W.E.B. DuBois works with...
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