Overview
This lecture introduces the three major theoretical paradigms in sociology—structural functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism—and explains their macro/micro perspectives and importance in interpreting social facts.
Theoretical Paradigms in Sociology
- Paradigms are models or sets of concepts that shape how we interpret social reality.
- Theoretical paradigms provide the core assumptions guiding sociological research and analysis.
- Raw facts require interpretation through a paradigm to become meaningful for sociological inquiry.
Macro and Micro Perspectives
- Macro-level analysis examines large-scale social structures and broad societal patterns.
- Micro-level analysis focuses on small-scale interactions between individuals.
- Macro and micro levels are interconnected; micro interactions can inform macro structures and vice versa.
Structural Functionalism
- Originated with Emile Durkheim; views society as a system with interdependent parts working for stability and order.
- Social structures are stable patterns of behavior that fulfill specific functions.
- Manifest functions are intended; latent functions are unintended or hidden.
- Social dysfunction refers to patterns that disrupt society’s smooth functioning.
- Criticized for difficulty explaining social change and justifying negative aspects (e.g., poverty) as functional.
Conflict Theory
- Views society as composed of groups competing for scarce resources, making conflict and change central.
- Karl Marx’s class conflict theory centers on struggles between capitalists and workers over the means of production.
- Other conflict theories focus on inequalities between races (Race-Conflict theory) and genders (Gender-Conflict theory).
- Emphasizes social inequality and is useful for analyzing sources of societal change.
Symbolic Interactionism
- Originated from Max Weber’s focus on Verstehen, or understanding individual experiences.
- Examines society through meanings created and shared in everyday interactions (micro-level).
- Social reality is built through agreed-upon meanings (e.g., gestures, symbols).
- Focuses on subjective interpretations rather than absolute truths.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Paradigm — a model or framework for understanding and interpreting reality.
- Macro-level — large-scale societal structures and processes.
- Micro-level — individual or small group interactions.
- Social structure — stable patterns of social behavior in society.
- Manifest function — intended or obvious function of a social structure.
- Latent function — unintended or hidden function of a social structure.
- Social dysfunction — a social pattern that disrupts society’s order.
- Class conflict — struggle between social classes over resources.
- Verstehen — understanding the subjective meaning of social actions.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Prepare to learn how these paradigms are applied in sociological research next week.