Sociological Perspectives

noun the philosophical doctrine that all events, including human action, are ultimately determined by causes external to the will

• The concept of determinism suggests that all events, including human actions, are ultimately determined by causes external to the will.
• Determinism basically says that everything happens for a reason, and we don't really have free will.
• Determinism is like saying we're all just puppets on strings, with no real control over our lives.
• In the grand scheme of determinism, it's like we're all just pieces on a giant chessboard being moved by some unseen force.

noun a set of criteria or stated values in relation to which measurements or judgments can be made

preposition a word governing, and usually preceding, a noun or pronoun and expressing a relation to another word or element in the clause

• In scientific research, it is important to establish a clear frame of reference for accurate data analysis.
• When discussing politics, it's crucial to understand each person's unique frame of reference.
• Dude, you need to change your frame of reference if you want to understand what I'm saying.
• Her upbringing in a small town provided her with a different frame of reference compared to someone raised in a big city.

noun a person who believes in the philosophy of positivism, which emphasizes empirical observation and scientific methods

adjective relating to or characteristic of positivism

• The positivist approach to social science emphasizes the use of empirical evidence and scientific methods.
• Some researchers prefer the positivist perspective because it focuses on observable facts.
• Positivists believe that only what can be proven through direct observation is valid.
• In a positivist mindset, everything must be tangible and measurable to be considered true.

noun a policy of revision, especially of a political doctrine, theory, or practice

• The historian's work was criticized for its blatant revisionism of historical events.
• Some people just can't handle the truth so they resort to revisionism.
• I can't believe he's trying to pull off that revisionism nonsense.
• Her revisionism of the situation made it seem like a completely different story.

noun a theoretical perspective in sociology and political science that focuses on the functional integration of different parts of a society or political system

• Neofunctionalism is a theory in international relations that emphasizes the importance of functional integration among states.
• I read an interesting article about neofunctionalism and its impact on European integration.
• Neofunctionalism is like the new kid on the block in the world of political theories.
• Just like how neofunctionalism promotes cooperation among states, we should strive to work together towards common goals.