Sociology Theoretical Perspectives

Theoretical Perspectives A set of assumptions about an area of study. Each provides a different slant on human social behavior. An attempt to explain why the world works the way

Symbolic Interactionism Imagine there was a nuclear holocaust and there was a small group of 120 people. They would need to decide on many things. Language Roles people will play – ex. females,males Who will mate with whom? Who will lead? Who will work? How will things be provided? Who will do what?

Symbolic Interactionism Micro Perspective - in a small group we will decided what everything means. Each family is a culture in itself and decides what it will do. Society is a product of everyday interactions of individuals. Society is composed of symbols that people use to establish meaning, develop their views of the world and to communicate with each other.

Symbolic Interactionism Symbol - something chosen to represent something else. Object, word, facial expression, sound. Something observable that represents something not observable. Groups attach meaning to symbols. Interaction based on mutually understood

Symbolic Interactionism An individual’s interpersonal relationships are the most important part of society. This interaction relies on shared symbols and shared meanings. Symbols flag, model, pledge, gestures, words (which can change in meaning). You are creating the meaning for your society. Over time meanings in society changes.

Symbolic Interactionism Society comes out of our construction of reality by individuals in everyday life. How people define something as being important. Focuses on the way people interact. Groups exist because members influence each other's behavior

Symbolic Interactionism Interaction based on mutually understood symbols. Learn how to react to symbols by watching others react to them. Example: Watch others boo and realize it means displeasure. We base our behavior on the learned meaning of symbols. Example: booing is a negative response and because of it we feel uncomfortable.

Functionalism Macro Perspective - a large view of what is going on. Society is interdependent. Each part contributes positively to the functioning of the whole and to social order. Example Flying in a plane. You see patterns below. It is a broad view.

Functionalism Each plays a positive part in making sure the system functions smoothly. Social systems are highly stable because people cooperate. They agree to act in certain ways. Example A - well oiled machine. Each part is important. We cannot say that any part is not necessary.

Functionalism Role of each part of society what roles to groups, individuals, and organizations play in the smooth functioning of the whole. Social order is achieved through cooperation. Because another person does what they do, you can do what you do in society. Example Work. What happens when a really efficient or good worker is gone for a period of time? It is really hard to fill that function.

Functionalism Contributions or functions of each part of society. See parts of society as an integrated whole. Societies tend to return to a state of stability after upheaval has occurred.

Functionalism Manifest Functions - intended and recognized. Example: School to teach math skills. Latent Functions -unintended and unrecognized. Example: School development of close friendships. Dysfunction - Elements of society that have negative consequences. Values - belief that there is consensus

Conflict Perspective Macro Perspective - looking down from an airplane Opposite of Functionalism Societies are always marked by conflict between a dominant group and a subordinate group. Conflict is a fact of life and a key to change.

Conflict Perspective Competing interest groups are accommodating to each other. At any time the system may be come unbalanced because of shifts in power. (example presidential election) Parts of society are in competition with each other, unstable and are likely to change, sometimes quickly. Social life involves conflict because different people have different goals and needs.

Conflict Perspective Who is benefiting from any particular social arrangement? If you have oil, would you give it up? What is happening between the groups? Social order is achieved through coercion; force, power and group strength

Conflict Perspective If we have a privilege, we really want to protect that privilege. We will do whatever we need to do to get on top. Minority groups in conflict with majority groups. Example between men and women. Men feel they have or should have more power.

Conflict Perspective If we have a privilege, we really want to protect that privilege. We will do whatever we need to do to get on top. Minority groups in conflict with majority groups. Example between men and women. Men feel they have or should have more power.

Conflict Perspective Emphasizes conflict, competition, change, and constraint within a society. Focuses on the disagreements among various groups Groups tend to try to preserve their own wellbeing

Conflict Perspective Power - ability to control the behavior of others People with most have most wealth, prestige, and privileges. Able to limit/constrain the less powerful. Changes occur when various groups gain more power.