Recording-2025-02-25T18:22:39.977Z

Theoretical Frameworks in Sociology

• Definition of Theories: Theories are frameworks for understanding and analyzing social structures and relationships.

Structural Functionalism

• Concept Overview: This theory posits that society is made up of interconnected parts that work together to maintain stability and equilibrium.

• Viewpoint of Structural Functionalists:

  • Understand society as a complex system with interdependent elements.

  • Each part plays a crucial role in fostering social order.

  • Focus on how various aspects of society contribute to overall functioning.

• Example in Film:

  • Analyze how marginalized populations symbolize societal dysfunction.

  • Illustrate the roles of institutions (like family, education) that support social stability.

Conflict Theory

• Concept Overview: This theory centers on the struggles between different social classes and groups over resources and power.

• Viewpoint of Conflict Theorists:

  • Emphasizes inequalities and power dynamics in society.

  • Views social structures as arenas of conflict and competition.

• Example in Film:

  • Depict the disparities between 'haves' and 'have nots.'

  • Explore power struggles among various social groups.

Concepts from Identity and Deviance Modules

• Concept Selection: Identify three key sociological concepts.

• Examples in Film:

  • Groups: Define what constitutes a sociological group and illustrate with a scene reflecting group dynamics.

  • Agents of Socialization: Identify key agents (family, peers, media) depicted and their impact on characters’ identities.

  • Deviance: Demonstrate instances of deviant behavior in film and analyze its social implications.

Reflection on Learning

• Understanding and Clarification: Assess whether the film enhanced comprehension of sociological concepts.

• Cinematic Representation: Discuss how film serves as a medium for illustrating complex social themes compared to passive consumption of media.

Conclusion

• Sociological Perspective vs. Entertainment:

  • Highlight the differences in insights gained from a sociological analysis versus viewing for mere entertainment.

  • Key Insight: Sociology examines the relationship between individuals and broader societal structures, emphasizing how they shape one another.

Recap of Recent Discussions

• Self Awareness and Identity: Humans categorize and create identity groups based on shared characteristics.

• Role Conflict and Strain:

  • Role Conflict: Arises when different social roles impose competing demands on an individual.

  • Role Strain: Occurs within a single role when conflicting expectations arise.

Nature vs. Nurture Debate

• Definitions: Nature refers to genetic inheritance; nurture encompasses social and environmental influences.

• Sociological Interest: Focus on the relative impacts of both factors on identity and behavior.

• Case Study: Discuss the case of David Raymer and the implications of his experience on understanding the nature vs. nurture argument.

Measuring Deviance

• Definition of Deviance: Discrepancy from societal norms, which can be subjective and context-dependent.

• Approaches to Measure Deviance:

  • Statistical Approach: Identifies statistically rare behaviors.

  • Legalistic Approach: Considers actions that violate laws as deviant.

  • Normative Approach: Examines behaviors against societal norms and the subsequent social reactions.

Conclusion on Measuring Deviance

• The complexity of defining and categorizing deviance emphasizes the sociological perspective on behavior being relative and socially constructed.