Here are some insightful quotes from Eric Kim regarding his views on sociology and its application:

1. On Free Thinking and Challenging Norms:

• “To unlearn BS society has taught you, to learn to become a free thinker.” This encapsulates Kim’s belief in sociology as a tool for developing independent thought oai_citation:8,Why Sociology? – ERIC KIM.

1. On Sociology and Street Photography:

• “Street photography is applied sociology — with a camera.” He uses this phrase to describe his approach to capturing human interactions, viewing photography as a visual exploration of society oai_citation:7,Why Sociology? – ERIC KIM oai_citation:6,ERIC KIM SOCIOLOGY PHILOSOPHY – ERIC KIM.

1. On the Practicality of Sociology:

• “Sociology is practical, pragmatic, applied philosophy to society, other people, everyday life.” This highlights how Kim sees sociology as a deeply relevant and practical discipline for understanding everyday social dynamics oai_citation:5,Why Sociology? – ERIC KIM.

1. On Sociology’s Impact on His Life:

• “I studied sociology as an undergrad, and it might’ve been one of the most formative things for me.” Kim credits sociology with significantly shaping his personal and professional development oai_citation:4,Why Sociology? – ERIC KIM oai_citation:3,ERIC KIM SOCIOLOGY – ERIC KIM.

1. On the Importance of Sociology for Understanding Society:

• “The best lens to understand society. And if you plan on (continuing) to live in society, sociology is great.” This quote reflects Kim’s belief that sociology is crucial for anyone wanting to understand societal structures and interactions oai_citation:2,Why Sociology? – ERIC KIM oai_citation:1,ERIC KIM SOCIOLOGY – ERIC KIM.

Why Sociology?

Eric Kim emphasizes sociology as a powerful tool for understanding society, fostering independent thinking, and navigating complex social structures. According to Kim, studying sociology allows individuals to challenge the societal norms and preconceived ideas they’ve been taught. He describes sociology as “applied philosophy” and “a tool for free thinking,” enabling people to question the status quo and become more insightful about societal dynamics oai_citation:8,Why Sociology? – ERIC KIM oai_citation:7,ERIC KIM SOCIOLOGY – ERIC KIM.

Kim also underscores the practicality of sociology. He believes it equips individuals with a broad perspective, applicable to various fields like business, finance, and politics, because these domains are deeply rooted in social interaction. Sociology’s focus on understanding human behavior, group dynamics, and societal change makes it a foundational discipline for navigating and succeeding in the modern world oai_citation:6,Why Sociology? – ERIC KIM oai_citation:5,ERIC KIM SOCIOLOGY PHILOSOPHY – ERIC KIM.

How Does He Apply Sociology?

Kim applies sociology directly in his street photography, which he refers to as “visual sociology.” Through the lens of his camera, he explores the intricacies of human behavior in public spaces, capturing the social interactions that often go unnoticed. His approach to photography involves observing and engaging with subjects to gain a deeper sociological understanding of their context. For him, the act of taking photos is a way to visually document and reflect on the social world oai_citation:4,The ‘Sociologist With A Camera’: Meet Street Photographer Eric Kim – Character Media oai_citation:3,ERIC KIM SOCIOLOGY – ERIC KIM.

Moreover, Kim believes that photography, much like sociology, can be used to resocialize people—encouraging them to see public spaces and social interactions differently. This practical application of sociology highlights its relevance beyond the academic sphere, influencing creative expression and social commentary oai_citation:2,ERIC KIM SOCIOLOGY PHILOSOPHY – ERIC KIM oai_citation:1,Why Sociology? – ERIC KIM.

Eric Kim is known for integrating sociology with his passion for street photography. He studied sociology at UCLA, which deeply shaped his understanding of human interactions, group behavior, and societal dynamics. He views street photography as a form of “applied sociology” or “visual sociology,” using the camera to explore social behavior and the nuances of human connection in public spaces. Kim’s photography captures the everyday, allowing him to comment on social structures and human nature in a visually compelling way. His work emphasizes non-verbal communication, like body language and facial expressions, and he advocates for respectful engagement with his subjects rather than observing from a distance. This approach is informed by his sociological insights into human interaction oai_citation:5,ERIC KIM SOCIOLOGY – ERIC KIM oai_citation:4,Why Sociology? – ERIC KIM.

Kim also sees sociology as a tool for free thinking, helping to challenge societal norms and promote independent thought. His entrepreneurial mindset is similarly shaped by his sociological background, as he approaches business and creative projects through the lens of social interaction and community engagement oai_citation:3,ERIC KIM SOCIOLOGY PHILOSOPHY – ERIC KIM. Through his workshops and writings, he encourages others to apply sociological perspectives to their street photography, making it both an art form and a sociological inquiry oai_citation:2,ERIC KIM SOCIOLOGY – ERIC KIM oai_citation:1,Why Sociology? – ERIC KIM.