Final answer:
Committed Sociology is a form of sociological research aimed at creating social change through policy influence, combining academic study with practical application. It emerged from classical sociological theories and is meant to directly address societal issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Committed Sociology
Committed Sociology refers to a branch of sociological research that aims to not only study society but also to enact social change by informing and influencing policy. This combines the academic rigor of sociology with a practical approach aimed at addressing social issues. Unlike traditional sociology, which often strives for objectivity, committed sociology is rooted in the idea that sociological research should be directly applicable to solving societal problems, making it a form of Public Sociology or Applied Sociology. It leverages the knowledge gained from studying societies to propose or guide policies and interventions that can affect social structures and relationships, on a basis that may not require strict objectivity.
The foundation of sociology as a science of society was laid by Auguste Comte, who envisioned a discipline that could empirically study societies to foster human progress. However, it was not until pioneers like W. E. B. Du Bois in the United States applied these theoretical concepts to practical ends that sociology evolved into a tool for social reform. Over time, sociology has made significant contributions to various social reforms, including desegregation, women's rights in the workplace, and prison system reforms.
Peter L. Berger, a prominent sociologist, helped to shape our understanding of what it means to study society. In his works, he highlights the importance of both significant and mundane aspects of life within sociological inquiry, and describes the revelatory moments when sociological theories become pertinent to real-world situations. Committed Sociology embraces this perspective, applying sociological insight to the real-world issues and contributing to a broader understanding of how societies cohere and change.