The study of culture and its role in shaping human behavior has long been a topic of interest for sociologists and anthropologists alike. In his work, White critiques the notion of 'free will' in anthropology, arguing that it is often neglected in favor of other factors such as evolution and culturology. He asserts that the latest science, culturology, is superior to all others in its ability to study human behavior.

One of the key concepts in sociology is that of a phenomenon. A phenomenon is something that is observed to happen or exist, and it can be studied through various scientific methods. In the field of sociology, phenomena can range from simple behaviors such as language use to complex social structures like institutions.

In order to understand human behavior, sociologists must first identify the determinants of that behavior. These determinants are factors that influence an individual's actions or thoughts, and they can be categorized into three main types: external, internal, and cultural. External determinants refer to factors outside of the individual, such as societal norms and expectations, while internal determinants include factors such as personality traits and psychological makeup. Cultural determinants, on the other hand, are those that are specific to a particular culture or society.

The identification of these determinants is crucial in understanding human behavior because it allows researchers to develop theories about how people think, feel, and act. By examining the relationships between individuals and their environment, sociologists can gain insight into the processes that shape human behavior.

In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards the study of personality in its cultural background or context. This approach recognizes that an individual's personality is shaped by the culture they were raised in, and that understanding this relationship is essential for developing effective social policies.

One of the key figures in the development of sociology as a scientific discipline was Émile Durkheim. In his work, Durkheim argued that sociology should be viewed as a natural science, with its own set of standards and methods for studying human behavior. He believed that by adopting a more rigorous scientific approach to the study of society, sociologists could gain a deeper understanding of how social structures and institutions shape individual behavior.

In conclusion, the definition of phenomena in sociology is crucial for understanding human behavior and developing effective social policies. By identifying the determinants of human behavior and examining the relationships between individuals and their environment, sociologists can gain insight into the processes that shape human behavior. Additionally, by adopting a more rigorous scientific approach to the study of society, sociologists can contribute to our understanding of culture and its role in shaping human behavior.

Phenomena definition in sociology