Sociology has been defined as the science of society. The scientific approach consists of certain assumption that the phenomena studied have a regularity and hence, a pattern. The method emphasizes observation and verification of social phenomena. This involves a systematic approach to the study of phenomena.
The systematic approach consists of:
- defining a problem for study.
- collecting data on the problem defined.
- analyzing and organizing the data, which would help in formulation of hypothesis.
- further testing of the hypothesis and on the basis of this, develop new concepts and theories.
Sociology has been using a systematic approach in the study of social life. On the basis of the knowledge gathered through the systematic approach, it has tried to build a body of reliable knowledge. From this knowledge, it has tried to establish the patterns of relationships from which effort can be made at understanding social behavior.