theory and methods

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structuralism

an approach focusing on the large-scale social structures in which people play defined roles.

macro approach

focusing on the large scale of whole societies

micro approach

focusing on small-scale social interaction

correlation

when two variables are related to each other but causation cannot be proven.

causation

a strict link that can be proven between two variables in a time sequence

interpretivism

they argue that there is a difference between the subject matter of sociology and natural science, humans are active conscious beings.

identity

how a person sees themselves, and hiw others see them.

examples of social labels

• sex and gender identities

• ethnic identity

• age

• social class

• nationality

consensus

basic agreement on a set of shared values.

conflict

disagreement between groups with different interests

functionalism

main sociological perspective based on a consensus view of society

Marxism

a perspective that argues that modern industrial societies are based on a fundamental conflict between social classes they believe that the bourgeoisie with the wealth and power exploit and oppress the proletariat.

feminism

a sociological perspective that emphasises conflict, they see a fundamental division between two sexes.

liberal feminists

they believe that major advances have been made and that equality can be reached through further changes such as new laws.

radical feminists

they believe that despite these advances, societies remain fundamentally patriarchal and men still have power.

positivism

an approach to sociology based on studying society based on studying society in a scientific matter.

quantitative data

information and facts that take a numerical form

bias

prejudice that distorts the truth when research is influenced by the values of the researcher or by the decisions taken about the research, such as the sampling method used.

objectivity

absence of bias, the researchers do not allow their values or feelings to influence the research.

factors considered when doing research

• their personal interests, experiences and observations.

• what is already known about the topic and what is not yet known about it

• social changes and developments - there may be something new that we know little about.

• wether funding is available - which may depend on how important funders think the topic is

• how practical it will be to do the research