Publication Date
10-1-2026
Abstract
This paper considers the relationship between sociology and generative AI (GenAI) as a phenomenon that may be studied using common sociological concepts and theories, including the Sociological Imagination, Structural Functionalism, Conflict Theory, and Symbolic Interactionism, which are considered foundational to the discipline of sociology. Within each section are contemporary examples of GenAI and how they connect to sociology. This paper benefits a wide audience, as students, faculty, and those who use these theories and concepts in practice settings may adopt them within a variety of contexts, including the classroom, a scholarly presentation, a workshop, or a training opportunity. Sources include both scholarly journals and books, as well as more easily accessible data visualizations and journalistic essays intended for a non-academic audience that tend to be helpful when readers are looking for versatile and accessible sources for a wide audience or larger viewership. Although the focus is sociological, this paper is also helpful from an interdisciplinary standpoint, as these concepts and theories may be applied and critically discussed across related disciplines.