Social Theory Study

Structural Functionalism

(MACRO / MID) The way each part of soceity functions together to contribute to the functiong of the whole.

Conflict Theory

MACRO - the way inequities and inequalities contribute to social, political , and power differences and how they perpetuate power

Symbolic Interactionism

The way one-n-one interactions and communications behave

Functionalism

Society as a system, social institution, dynamic equilibrium, social facts (laws, values), Manifest function (the obvious and anticipated), Latent functions (the unintended), Dysfunctions (undesirable consequences that disrupt society)

STRATIFICATION: Parsons (society as a socail system), Institutions, interdependent,

Conflict Theory

• Karl marx: identified social classes as the primary groups in competition.

• Ludwig Gumplowicz: argued conflict is the foundation of civilization with dominant groups establishing power.

• Max weber expanded on Karl’s ideas and suggest political power and social status are sources of inequality.

• George simmel: conflict can have positive effects such as increasing solidarity within opposing groups.

• This theory aims to explain waht is wrong with society because of the struggle of resources and rewards.
  PATRIATRCHY: male power.

Symbolic Interactionism Theory

• Focuses on face-to-face interactions and relationships with individuals

• Symbols and communications: people create their world through communication and exchange of meaning via language and symbols

• Individuals are people that shape their social reality

• We assign meanings to objects, people, and behaviors

• Dramaturgical analysis: people like to act their roles

• Constructivism: extension of the theory, reality is a social construct. Shared beliefs and meanings that are widely accepted within a society form social constructs.