Sociological imagination refers to the ability to

A) create meaningful sociological theories and test those theories.
B) develop methods to modify society and thus improve the lives of individuals.
C) see the societal patterns that influence the individual as well as groups of individuals.
D) identify societal needs and develop ways to address those needs.

The sociological imagination is the ability to connect individual experiences to broader societal patterns. It allows individuals to understand how larger social structures and institutions affect their own outcomes and actions, and in turn, how their own actions can impact society as a whole. Being able to see the societal patterns that influence individuals and groups is a key component of this concept.