Taking on a sociology thesis means one of two things about you. You either have an interest in the ills of society with an eye toward fixing them, or you are something of a voyeur with an academic focus. If it’s the first option, good for you. If it’s the second option, don’t get caught via your thesis. Make sure that, even if it’s insincere, your analysis of whatever topic you choose shows an interest in the progression away from the problem toward a solution and not just a gritty gossip column.
At the other end of the spectrum, make sure that your analysis is not just dry academia. A regurgitation of the textbook or a rant with a politically correct moral is not a successful sociology thesis. Ask a viable academic question based on your interests and then answer it in such a way that your thesis adds to the field’s body of knowledge.
A few topics for your sociology thesis could include:
Once you’ve chosen your topic, get it approved. You may not be aware of 3 books that came out in the 80s on your subject matter, but your advisor probably is. He or she must also be able to point you toward research that will inform your work or an expert on staff who can. Additionally, just having someone to talk to about your sociology thesis is a good way of working out your thoughts. The feedback can lead you to make conclusions or get ideas that you wouldn’t have otherwise.
Next, it’s time to do research. You can rely on the research and writings of those who have come before you or you can be brave – take on a topic or a sociology thesis question that has not been answered before, one that you can answer with the resources available to you. This may mean choosing something of local significance and starting early enough to make sure that you get participants for your study, but it will be worth it. Not only will you certainly have a handle on your thesis and a genuine interest in the outcome of your research, but you will impress your advising committee with the extra effort. You will be considered more of a colleague instead one in a sea of faceless students. You may even get the paper published, gaining you yet more respect and maybe even a job offer. There’s no limit to the good that can come from working hard, starting early, and taking the extra step.