Sociology Theories, Research Methods, and Social Stratification Overview

Functionalism

The parts of our society are necessary as part of society's function.

Conflict Theory

Society is built on inequality, which develops into conflict.

Symbolic Interactions

Association of ideas and symbols in our society.

Ethnography

When conducting an Experiment.

Independent variable

The cause of the change.

Dependent variable

The effect of the change.

Operational Definition

A precise description of the experiment's procedure.

High Culture

Culture of high society (Tennis, Opera, etc.).

Low Culture

Culture of the lower class/masses (Local band).

Pop Culture

Culture of the mainstream (TV, Fashion, Music).

Counterculture

Culture that goes against accepted norms/values (Protest Movements).

Non-material culture

Culture you cannot touch: Ideas, Beliefs.

Material culture

Culture you can touch: Items.

Culture Shock

Frustration experienced through interaction with another culture.

Ethnocentrism

To judge other cultures by your own.

Xenocentrism

The belief that another culture is superior to your own.

Collective Conscious

Culmination of society's beliefs.

Alienation

You become excluded from a group or community.

Iron cage

The loss of individuality for efficiency.

Role Conflict

When two roles interfere with the other.

Labeling Theory

Constant Labeling leads to deviant behavior.

Strain Theory

The inability to achieve your goals leads to deviance.

Social Disorganization Theory

Deviance is the result of weak community relations.

Differential Association

Deviance is learned from role models.

Felony

A year minimum of imprisonment.

Misdemeanor

Less than a year of fines.

Net neutrality

The idea that all data should be treated equally.

Social Stratification

Organizing people to different rankings in society.

Dous-Moore Thesis

Social stratification is an unnecessary part of all social.

Transgender

A person's gender identity differs from assigned sex.