Question

how do sociologists observe society?
by studying the various parts of a society and the ways they interact with and influence one another
by comparing the past and present, with a focus on the past
by studying the relationship between individuals and society, specializing in internal states of mind
by studying society as a concrete object, the same way a geologist studies a rock

Explanation:

Sociologists study society by looking at its various components and their interactions and influences. Comparing past and present with a focus on the past is more historical - oriented. Studying individual - society relationships with a focus on internal states of mind is more psychological. Treating society as a concrete object like a geologist studies a rock is not how sociologists work.

Answer:

by studying the various parts of a society and the ways they interact with and influence one another