What did I learn from this class-GUO YING

 1. Through this course, I first learned how to use a blog to organize my weekly reading materials. I believe this method helps us highlight key aspects of our learning, facilitating better understanding and digestion of weekly knowledge. Moving forward, I intend to continue utilizing blogs effectively to enhance my learning experience.

2. In this course, I learned a lot about sociology through Wikipedia. I gained insights into various aspects such as social structure, social interaction, and social change. I also systematically studied various research methods and theoretical frameworks in sociology, which sparked a strong interest in the subject for me. For instance, sociology proposes that many social realities (like gender, race, and class) are constructed through social interactions and cultural consensus. This implies that our understanding of these concepts is not fixed but changes with time and societal contexts, highlighting the need for continuous updating of knowledge rather than rigidity. Moreover, sociology delves deeply into issues of social inequality and the distribution of power, revealing disparities in wealth, power, and resources among different groups. These studies aid in understanding social conflicts, social mobility, and various forms of discrimination and injustice, thereby helping us better comprehend and address societal issues as society evolves. Additionally, I learned about related topics such as free culture, economics, religion, politics, and government. Of particular note to me was the emphasis on individual freedom and expression in free culture, which often fosters innovation and creativity. However, it also stresses that individuals must bear social responsibilities while enjoying their freedoms, thereby promoting public interest and societal welfare. Studying various political structures in different countries deepened my understanding of politics. Mechanisms like the separation of powers (legislative, executive, and judicial) in government prevent the concentration and abuse of power, uphold the rule of law, and promote social order. In exploring religion, I learned how it provides moral and ethical frameworks that guide personal and societal distinctions between good and evil, although it can also be a source of conflict, necessitating a dialectical approach. I also addressed many sociological issues such as gender inequality, race, and ethnicity. Historically, women have long been subordinate in many societies, facing systemic discrimination. Even in modern times, gender inequality remains widespread, with women facing higher risks of violence and harassment in both domestic and public settings. Legal and social support systems still inadequately protect women's rights. Similarly, systemic discrimination and oppression affect certain racial and ethnic groups across various aspects of life such as law, education, employment, and housing. These groups often encounter prejudice and discrimination in daily life, impacting their social status and opportunities. I believe that cultural identity among racial and ethnic groups faces challenges in multicultural societies, necessitating a balance between social integration and cultural preservation. Governments and social organizations should employ anti-discrimination laws, multicultural policies, and educational reforms to promote racial and ethnic equality. In the sociology of the internet, I realized how the internet has transformed information dissemination, making information more accessible and diverse. However, it has also led to information overload and the spread of misinformation. The widespread adoption of the internet highlights significant disparities in its use and access among different social groups, reflecting digital divides that affect social equity and inclusivity. It has altered traditional work and business models while presenting new challenges in privacy protection and cybersecurity. Studying demographics, I gained a deeper understanding of the importance of regulating population size through insights into population migration, urbanization, aging populations, and their societal impacts. In the realm of social interaction, Goffman's dramaturgical theory particularly intrigued me. He emphasizes how individuals play different roles in various contexts to maintain social order. Through role-playing and impression management, individuals control how others perceive them, ensuring coherence and predictability in social interactions. Furthermore, Goffman's studies of norms and rituals in social situations, such as etiquette, face, and strategies for escaping awkward situations, reveal implicit rules and social structures in daily interactions. Regarding socialization, social control, and forces of social barriers, these concepts describe how individuals are shaped, restricted, and influenced in society, and how society maintains order and stability through control mechanisms and social norms. Recognizing the existence of social barriers contributes to efforts to promote social justice and equality, fostering broader societal participation and development.

3. In conclusion, through studying this course, I have gained an understanding of the definition of sociology, research methods, and many topics within sociology. It has enhanced my personal insight and enabled me to adapt more quickly to societal changes. Importantly, sociology has provided a solid foundation for my future career choices. By mastering various sociological knowledge and skills, I can find opportunities and room for growth in diverse professions. Ultimately, studying sociology has not only helped me elevate my knowledge and understanding but also promotes societal change and personal development. It equips me with necessary cognitive tools and methodological support to navigate complex social environments effectively.