Problem
Sociology is about the study of the world that you create through your actions, interactions, and agreement with the "rules" of the world. Can you begin think like a sociologist and take a close look at the two institutions that are closest to your current life experience. For example, your family, a previous or current school, a workplace, or any other organized establishment that you know. View them as "institutions" with structures, boundaries, and rules-and then reflect on them. A good place to start is by identifying the rules of these institutions, but do not just focus on the generic rules (like raising your hand before going to the bathroom). Focus on the specific and implicit rules. Are all the rules applied equally? Do some people follow different rules? If so, why? What functions do the rules perform? For an educational institution, the rule of showing up on time allows the institution to carry out its function of educating you.