Definition of Theories: Theories are frameworks for understanding and analyzing social structures and relationships.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The complexity of defining and categorizing deviance emphasizes the sociological perspective on behavior being relative and socially constructed.