Theme two...Harris2003onCritiquingandExpandingtheSocofInequality

Introduction to Sociology of Inequality

• Focus of Article: This article critiques the narrow view in sociology that only recognizes functionalism and conflict theory as approaches to studying inequality.

• Proposed New Perspective: Introduction of symbolic interactionism as a significant and valuable third approach.

• Comparative Analysis: The article compares the perspectives of functionalism, conflict theory, and interactionism on social stratification.

Conventional Wisdom in Sociology

• Main Assumption: Traditional sociology textbooks attribute the study of inequality to two major approaches: functionalism and conflict theory.

• Textbook References: Many texts present these theories side by side, often depicting functionalism as a weaker alternative to more potent conflict theories.

• Disappearance of Interactionism: Interactionism is often acknowledged as a sociological perspective but is frequently overlooked in discussions about inequality.

Functionalist and Conflict Perspectives

Overview of Perspectives

• Functionalism:

  • Emphasizes society as an organic system with interdependent components.

  • Believes society allocates rewards based on the necessity of qualified individuals in important roles.

  • Inequality is seen as a necessary system to motivate individuals to fulfill crucial societal roles.

• Conflict Theory:

  • Portrays society as a battlefield for competing factions struggling over resources.

  • Suggests that inequality arises from power struggles and exploitation, influenced by factors such as class, race, and gender.

Characteristics of Functionalism (Table 1)

1. Society is an organic system where components work together.

2. Important societal roles must be filled by qualified individuals.

3. Individuals require incentives (time, resources) to pursue necessary training.

4. Greater rewards are allocated to positions that are crucial and require specific talents.

5. Inequality is established unconsciously for functional necessity.

6. Some inequality is inevitable and beneficial for societal functioning.

Characteristics of Conflict Theory (Table 2)

1. Groups vie for societal resources and advantages.

2. Inequality stems from domination and exploitation by powerful groups.

3. Elites shape laws and beliefs to justify their privileges.

4. There is blocked mobility due to unequal opportunities.

5. Vital jobs may be undervalued despite their importance.

6. Inequality stifles discovery of talents among the lower strata.

Interactionism and Inequality

Contrast with Functionalism and Conflict Theory

• Interactionism prioritizes the meanings individuals assign to social phenomena, challenging functionalist and conflict perspectives' assumptions about the existence of a clear system of inequality.

• It posits that societal understanding of inequality is subjective and constructed through interaction.

Features of Interactionism (Table 3)

1. Society comprises human interactions.

2. Actions are based on meanings attributed by individuals.

3. No inherent meanings of equality or inequality exist.

4. Interpretations of inequality emerge through interactions.

5. Definitions of equality and inequality develop during social interactions.

6. The meaning of inequality is actively constructed and contextual.

Research and Implications

• Interactionism emphasizes understanding how individuals and groups define their social realities concerning inequality.

• Suggests a research methodology incorporating first-person perspectives rather than solely objective categories established by scholars.

• Recognizes inequality as a socially constructed phenomenon that deserves examination of individual definitions and experiences rather than broad, predetermined categorizations.

Conclusion

• The article advocates for incorporating interactionist perspectives into the sociology of inequality to enrich understanding.

• Highlights the importance of respecting and studying the meanings that individuals use to navigate issues of inequality within various social contexts.