Social Theory

Mechanical Solidarity

The type of social bonds present in premodern, agrarian societies, in which shared traditions and beliefs created a sense of social cohesion

Organic Solidarity

The type of social bonds present in modern societies, based on difference, interdependence, and individual rights

Anomie

“normlessness”, term used to describe the alienation and loss of purpose that result from weaker social bonds and an increase pace of change

Conflict Theory

A paradigm that sees social conflict as the basis of society and social change and that emphasizes a materialist view of society, a critical view of the status quo, and a dynamic model of historical change

Means of Production

Anything that can create wealth: money, property, factories, and other types of businesses, and the infrastructure necessary to run them

Class Consciousness

The recognition of social inequality on the part of the oppressed, leading to revolutionary action

Symbolic Interactionism

A paradigm that sees interaction and meaning as central to society and assumes that meaning are not inherent but are created through interaction

Harriet Martineau

A pioneering sociologist and advocate for social reform, known for her writings on social issues and her translation of Auguste Comte's work.

Jane Addams

A social reformer and activist, co-founder of Hull House, and a leader in women's suffrage and peace movements.

Webers view on Rationalization

In Economy and Society, Weber proposed that modern industrialization societies were characterized by efficient, goal-oriented, rule-governed bureaucracies.

functionalism

Society and an organism, structures meet the needs of society by performing different functions, and every function is necessary to maintain social order and stability.