What is defined as an idea that people accept as true and can be based on various sources?

The concept described as an idea that people accept as true and can stem from different sources is best defined as a belief. Beliefs are integral to sociology because they shape people's perceptions of the world, influence behavior, and serve as a foundation for values and norms within a society. They can be derived from personal experiences, cultural traditions, upbringing, religion, or societal influences, reflecting the complexity of human thought and social interaction.

Understanding beliefs is essential because they guide individuals and groups in their decisions and interactions. They differ from myths, which typically involve narratives or stories related to cultural or religious traditions, and from theories, which are systematic explanations of phenomena that rely on empirical evidence. Principles refer to fundamental truths or propositions that guide behavior or reasoning but do not encompass the broader range of sources from which beliefs can arise.