C&C Exam Review
Page 1: Theories in Sociology
Structural Functionalism
Society is composed of different interconnected groups, with each part playing an essential role.
Manifest Functions: Schools impart knowledge to children.
Latent Functions: Unintended outcomes of social structures, e.g., fostering a strong work ethic in students.
Conflict Theory
Society operates on the basis of power dynamics involving wealth and relationships. Power is distributed unequally, with dominating groups controlling resources.
Bourgeoisie: The wealthy and powerful elite.
Proletariat: The working class or the poor.
Cultural Materialism
Emphasizes the needs of individuals in shaping societal structure based on cultural contexts.
Key components include:
Infrastructure: Technology, economic production, and social institutions.
Structure: Social relationships and organization.
Superstructure: A collection of societal beliefs, ideas, and values.
Cultural products (e.g., art, media) reflect the interplay of these components.
Feminism
Advocates for equality between genders.
Social Cognitive Theory (Bandura)
Asserts individuals learn behaviors by observing others, summarized by “monkey see, monkey do.”
Humanism (Maslow)
Focuses on human potential and societal positive outcomes. Key concepts include:
Holistic View: Emphasizes understanding the individual as a whole, including feelings and experiences.
Hierarchy of Needs: Proposed by Maslow, addressing motivational factors in human behavior.
Intersectionality
Recognizes individual social locations (gender, class, race, ability, etc.) that shape unique societal experiences and intersecting discriminations.
Differential Association Theory
Suggests deviant behavior arises from social contexts; individuals are influenced by the behavior of those they associate with.
Social Class Conflict Theory (Karl Marx)
Views the legal system and economy as biased against the poor, who face societal exclusion.