Untitled Flashcards Set

Structural Functionalism

A sociological perspective that views society as composed of structures that serve specific functions and argues that inequality is functional for society.

Manifest Functions

The intended or obvious consequences of a particular social structure.

Latent Functions

The unintended or unrecognized consequences of a social structure.

Dysfunctions

Harmful or negative functions that a social structure might produce.

Conflict Perspective

A sociological paradigm that views society as a competition for resources, status, and power among groups.

Marx's Theory on Stratification

Proposes that stratification is based on relationships to the means of production, with the bourgeoisie controlling production and exploiting the proletariat.

Conflict Cycle

A process in which controlling and oppressed groups are at odds, leading to frustration, conflict, and a new social order.

Authority in Society

Positions in society that hold different amounts of vested authority, leading to superordination and subordination.

Common Interests

Factors that define superordinate and subordinate groups, where superordinate groups maintain the status quo and subordinate groups seek change.

Quasi Groups vs. Interest Groups

Quasi groups have latent common interests while interest groups have manifest, conscious goals.

Flint Water Crisis Case Study

A 2014 decision in Flint, Michigan to switch water sources, resulting in lead contamination and deaths, highlighting issues of authority and conflict.

Superordinate and Subordinate Groups

Groups defined by their positions of authority and goals; superordinate groups aim to maintain the status quo, while subordinate groups strive for change.

Dahrendorf's Theory of Authority and Conflict

Argues that social systems are held together by either voluntary cooperation or enforced constraint depending on the distribution of authority.