Social action theory and interpretivism

Free Will

The ability to control and choose what decisions you make and how you act; absence of social facts.

Determinism

The theory that all events, including moral choices, are completely determined by previously existing causes; precludes free will.

Social Action Theory (SAT)

A micro approach that focuses on small scale face-to-face interactions and emphasizes that individuals control society, not vice versa.

Looking Glass Self

The concept that people’s self-concepts are based on their understanding of how others perceive them.

Symbolic Interactionalism

The theory that we act towards others based on how we interpret their symbolic actions, which can vary in meaning.

Max Weber: Verstehen

The type of sociology that emphasizes the need for empathetic understanding in observing human action.

Goffman’s Dramaturgical Theory

The idea that people are actors on a 'social stage' who create an impression of themselves through their appearance, setting, and manner.

Instrumental Action

Actions encouraged in modern societies aimed at efficiency rather than morality.