Common-sense and sociological approaches and the differences between them

Common-Sense Approaches to Society

Common-sense knowledge is often based on personal experiences, judgements and assumptions.
It tends to be subjective, as it is heavily influenced by personal biases.
This approach refers to the knowledge someone has of the world that’s developed from daily life, without formal study or examination.
It rarely questions the fundamental aspects of social life and assumes that things are the way they are due to natural or logical reasons.
Common-sense knowledge generally lacks a theoretical framework, being driven by practical considerations rather than by systematic study.
It does not recognise its own limitations and lacks reflexivity.

Sociological Approaches to Society

The sociological approach is about using specific methods and theories to study the social world.
This approach emphasises on research and testing hypothesis rather than just relying on conventional wisdom or common-sense knowledge.
Unlike common-sense, sociological approach is systematic and empirical; it relies on measurable and verifiable evidence.
It provides a framework in which the social world can be examined at different levels of abstraction and from varying perspectives.
This approach recognises that individual behaviour is influenced by larger social forces and structures, not just personal traits or motivations.
The sociological approach is reflexive: It acknowledges its own biases and limitations, striving for objectivity.

Differences Between Them

Common-sense knowledge is based on personal experience while sociological knowledge is based on scientific methods of data collection and analysis.
Sociological approaches are systematic and empirical, while common-sense approaches tend to be anecdotal and lack systematic investigation.
Unlike common-sense, sociological knowledge is theory-driven, meaning it is based on established scientific theories.
Common-sense approaches often do not question their own premises, while sociological approaches constantly reconsider their assumptions and methods in the light of new evidence.
Sociological approach understands individual behaviour in the context of broader social structures, while common-sense tends to attribute behaviour to individual traits or motivations.