Auguste Comte is widely recognized as the father of sociology. He coined the term 'sociology' and developed the concept of social statics and social dynamics.

Conflict Theory, associated with Karl Marx, focuses on the role of power and conflict in shaping social structures and interactions.

Symbolic Interactionism, developed by George Herbert Mead, emphasizes the role of symbols and social interaction in shaping individual meanings and behaviors.

Max Weber introduced the concept of the 'iron cage' of bureaucracy, referring to the rigid and impersonal nature of bureaucratic organizations.

Functionalism, associated with Talcott Parsons, emphasizes the role of social institutions in maintaining social order and stability.

Thomas Hobbes, in his work 'Leviathan', argued that the state is a necessary evil to prevent chaos and ensure social order.

Social constructivism emphasizes that social reality is not objectively given but is constructed through shared meanings, interactions, and cultural practices.

Pierre Bourdieu developed the concept of 'habitus', referring to the embodied dispositions and practices that shape individuals' social behavior and perceptions.

Critical theory, associated with the Frankfurt School, focuses on analyzing the relationship between power and knowledge, and how power structures shape social reality.

Immanuel Kant argued that individuals have an innate moral sense, known as the categorical imperative, which guides their moral decision-making.

Social capital refers to the value of social networks and relationships in facilitating individual success and well-being.

James Coleman developed the theory of 'rational choice', which assumes that individuals make decisions based on rational calculations of costs and benefits.

The 'social contract' theory, associated with John Locke and Thomas Hobbes, argues that individuals voluntarily surrender some of their freedoms to a governing authority in exchange for protection and security.

John Rawls, in his work 'A Theory of Justice', argued that the state should be neutral and impartial, and that justice requires fair distribution of resources and opportunities.

Feminist theory focuses on examining the role of gender in shaping social structures, experiences, and power relations.