The term Sociology was introduced/coined by -

Appeared in: UPPSC 2023

Explanation

Auguste Comte, a French philosopher, is credited with coining the term 'sociology' in 1838/1839 and is known as the 'Father of Sociology'.
He proposed that society could be studied scientifically, a perspective he called 'positivism'.
Comte initially referred to this new science as 'social physics' before settling on 'sociology' to create a distinct field of study.

Option B: Max Weber was a foundational sociologist, but his work focused on concepts like bureaucracy, rationalization, and interpretive sociology. He did not coin the term.
Option C: Herbert Spencer was an English philosopher who applied evolutionary theory to social structures, a concept known as 'Social Darwinism'.
Option D: Emile Durkheim was crucial in establishing sociology as a formal academic discipline and is known for his work on social facts and suicide.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain History of Sociology as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding sociology helps nurses appreciate how social factors (e.g., class, culture, family structure) influence a patient's health, beliefs, and behaviors.
Sociological concepts like social determinants of health are fundamental to community health nursing and public health policy in India and globally.
What if a patient refuses a treatment plan due to cultural beliefs? A nurse with sociological awareness can engage in culturally competent communication to find an acceptable alternative, rather than simply labeling the patient as non-compliant.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question from the history of a social science.
Identify the core task of the question: to name the person who 'coined' or 'introduced' the term 'Sociology'.
Access your foundational knowledge about the origins of sociology. The name 'Auguste Comte' is directly linked to the creation of the term.
Evaluate the other options. Recognize them as other important, but distinct, figures in sociology. Weber, Spencer, and Durkheim made their major contributions after the term was already established by Comte.
Confirm that Auguste Comte is the correct choice as the originator of the term.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Applied Sociology for Nurses TK Indrani pp. 29-31, 34-36

Practise the full UPPSC 2023

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.