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We say that sociology and common sense relates to our beliefs, values, and lifestyles. However, in reality, both sociology and common sense differ from each other. Let’s try and understand the difference between sociology and common sense.
Though the terms tend to be used as synonyms, they vary in many aspects. Sociology stems from a more appropriate approach to knowing the world and society. In contrast, common sense can differ from one person to another.Â
Before we begin to sort the difference between sociology and common sense, let us understand what these two terms are.
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What Is Sociology And Common Sense?
In general, people usually believe that sociology is the study of obvious or common sense. However, that is wrong. Sociology is the study of different groups, economic sectors, and family lifestyles. It is studying a society’s base and how everything is structured.
Further, it also includes the coordination of laws, rules, and policies that govern society.Â
Sociology uses reasoning and logic to understand why a certain belief is persistent in society. It also debunks stereotypes and unnecessary barricades of human minds. In sociology, there is an investigation related to social changes, causes, interactions, and consequences. It tries to understand how society influences social interaction and vice versa. Common sense is contradictory to sociology. It is something that is more innate and stems out of personal experiences. It is not necessary for common sense to be systematic and right. These are beliefs that we hold on to as individuals and pass on to our coming generations. However, they can be determined as true or false. For instance, you might perceive dark colors as a sign of sadness. However, another individual may perceive it as a sign of happiness.Â
In another perspective, common sense can be similar judgments that people hold for daily life. For instance, staying indoors during a storm would be preferred by all. This is an example of having a common sense that is logical and similar.In most cases, common sense also helps us make the right decisions. But, it can again be influenced by various other social or religious factors. Sociology and common sense differ in several aspects. They might be similar terminologies as they help us in choosing the best. But in certain ways, both sociology and common sense vary widely. Both can play a significant role for any individual on the practical side of life. It can help them make the right decision and do what is appropriate.Â
Sociology and common sense must not be mixed up. Let us understand the difference between sociology and common sense with this table.
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Difference Between Sociology And Common Sense
As we know, the two terminologies of sociology and common sense are not common. Let us understand the difference between sociology and common sense in detail.
Sociology | Common Sense |
Sociology is a more logical approach to any cause or change. | Common sense stems from what we think and can change from person to person. |
Sociology uses a casual pattern of explanation. It tries to investigate the cause-effect or vice versa. | Common sense has no causal explanations. It is a belief that is innate and true to specific sections of society. |
Sociology is purely based on facts that are practical and lack hindrance. | Common sense is driven more towards stereotypical beliefs. For instance, most people say it’s common sense that pink is a female color. However, it is not true. |
There is an empirical approach, testing, and explanation that happens in sociology. | In common sense, there is no room for empirical testing or explanation to beliefs. |
Sociological beliefs are generalized. They are done and decided for the betterment of society and are followed too.  | Common sense can be more personal. It might stand true to a certain section of the population. However, generalization is not possible. |
The dimension of sociology is change-oriented. Every rule or law or policy that goes out, is intended to make a change in the existing society. For instance, the government asks shops to cut down plastic use due to increasing global warming. Here, the government is suggesting a change for society. | The dimension of common sense is status-quoism. In this, common sense is only meant to convey the existing state. For instance, there is a flood in Assam, which is status-quoism. Common sense portrays the same; it does not suggest the next action. |
These points explain the difference between sociology and common sense. The advent of sociology and common sense are the same. Both of them state the facts. However, sociology is change-driven, and common sense can be static. Therefore, sociology and common sense differ by nature, aim, and characteristics.
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Conclusion
The general population would consider sociology and common sense to be the same. In layman’s language, both sociology and common sense sound the same. However, both these terminologies differ in various aspects.The difference between sociology and common sense is based on the aim, purpose, and characteristics. Sociology is more about understanding society through a logical approach. Common sense stems from personal experiences and can only be relevant to a particular section. Common sense states only the existing conditions in society.Â
In some cases, sociology and common sense can work together. For instance, common sense can indicate an existing problem. And the sociological aspects can help us know what changes can be made. Therefore, sociology and common sense may sound the same, but they hold varied relevance in society.
