Sociology is distinct from many other academic subjects because it deals with topics and concepts that every individual, to some extent, is already familiar with from their day-to-day life. This innate understanding arises from the very essence of being a part of society and engaging in social interactions.

The Natural Acquisition Of Social Knowledge

1.Inherent Familiarity: Unlike disciplines such as History or Economics, knowledge about society isn’t entirely learned from formal education. From birth, individuals continuously observe, interact, and adapt to the society around them. This assimilation happens organically without specific intent or structured teaching.

2.Growing Up In Society: The process of socialisation — growing and developing within one’s society and culture — equips individuals with societal knowledge. Children, even without formal instruction, understand societal norms, values, and structures just by existing within a community.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of This Prior Knowledge

Advantage — Relatability: Most students find sociology relatable. Because they already possess a foundational understanding of society, there’s a comfort in approaching the subject, leading to the misconception that it might be easy or intuitive.

Disadvantage — The Need for Unlearning: Since societal knowledge is naturally accrued, it often comes with biases and is framed within the individual’s specific cultural, social, and personal experiences. To study sociology scientifically and objectively, there’s a need to unlearn these biases and look beyond personal experiences.

The Double-Edged Sword Of Common Sense