Sociology: Theoretical Perspectives — Vocabulary Flashcards (Ch 1–5)

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms from the lecture notes on structural functionalism, solidarity, anomie, Marx, and conflict theory.

Structural functionalism

A macro-level theory that views society as a system of interrelated parts that must work together for stability; uses an organism or machine analogy.

Organism analogy

Metaphor used by structural functionalists to describe society as an organism whose parts must work together for the whole to function.

Macro-level theory

An approach that analyzes social structure and processes at the large-scale level (the whole society).

Micro-level theory

An approach that focuses on individuals' interpretations, interactions, and everyday social life.

Émile Durkheim

Foundational sociologist who argued for social solidarity and stability; associated with functionalism.

Social solidarity

The degree of a group's cohesion based on shared values, beliefs, and interaction; higher solidarity → greater stability.

Homeostasis

A balanced state in a system; in sociology, stability of social order maintained by norms and institutions.

Anomie

A negative state produced by absence or poorly defined norms; normlessness.

Norms

Shared expectations about appropriate behavior in a group.

Means of production

Resources and tools needed to produce goods and services (e.g., factories, land, technology).

Bourgeoisie

Owners of the means of production who profit from ownership and may not actively work in production.

Proletariat

Workers who own only their labor power and sell it for wages; often in unsafe conditions.

Karl Marx

Philosopher/economist associated with conflict theory; analyzed class conflict and capitalism's inequality.

Conflict theory

A perspective focusing on conflict over resources and inequality; asks who gets what and why.

Manifest functions

Obvious, intended consequences of social actions or institutions.

Latent functions

Hidden or unintended positive consequences of social actions or institutions.

Dysfunction

Negative consequences that disrupt or undermine social order or cohesion.

Labor power

The capacity to work; for the proletariat, the ability to work is exchanged for wages.

Industrial capitalism

Historical era of factory-based production and wage labor that shapes social relations and inequality.

Socioeconomic status (SES)

A composite measure of a person's economic and social position relative to others.