Overview
This lecture introduces three major theoretical approaches in sociology—functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism—explaining how each views society and social interactions.
Sociological Theories and Perspectives
- Sociological theories are frameworks to explain social events, interactions, and institutions.
- A theory proposes explanations and testable hypotheses about society.
- Theories differ by scale: macro-level examines large groups/institutions; micro-level focuses on small groups/individuals.
- Paradigms are overarching frameworks used to construct theories; main paradigms are functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism.
Functionalism (Structural-Functional Theory)
- Views society as a system of interrelated parts working to maintain stability.
- Each social institution (e.g., family, education, religion) has functions contributing to societal well-being.
- Emile Durkheim emphasized social facts as forces shaping individual behavior.
- Robert Merton distinguished manifest functions (intended) and latent functions (unintended).
- Dysfunctions are negative consequences of social processes.
- Criticized for neglecting social change and assuming all structures are functional.
Conflict Theory
- Sees society as a competition for scarce resources and power.
- Karl Marx emphasized class competition and the role of power in maintaining inequalities.
- Variations include focus on political, racial, or gender-based inequalities (e.g., critical theory, feminist theory, critical race theory).
- Conflict can create integration and future agreements but also perpetuate oppression.
- Criticized for overemphasizing conflict and overlooking social stability.
Symbolic Interactionism
- Focuses on everyday interactions and the meanings people assign to symbols and actions.
- Founded by George Herbert Mead and developed by Herbert Blumer.
- Society is constructed through individual interactions and shared meanings.
- Erving Goffman introduced dramaturgical analysis, likening social interaction to theatrical performance.
- Constructivism extends this, positing that reality is shaped by shared social agreements.
- Criticized for narrow scope and challenges in objectivity.
Application Example: Food Consumption
- Functionalists analyze the broader role of the food industry in society.
- Conflict theorists examine power disparities, such as corporate control versus local farmers.
- Symbolic interactionists explore meanings in food rituals or group dietary identities.
Sociological Theory Today
- All three paradigms still influence modern sociology, with adaptations for contemporary issues.
- Postmodern theory and public sociology emerged to address new social phenomena and promote public understanding.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Theory — a proposed explanation for social phenomena and patterns.
- Macro-level analysis — examination of large-scale social processes.
- Micro-level analysis — study of individual or small group interactions.
- Paradigm — a broad theoretical framework guiding research and theory.
- Social institutions — organized patterns of beliefs and behavior meeting social needs.
- Social facts — external factors influencing individual behavior.
- Manifest function — intended and recognized consequence of social process.
- Latent function — unintended or hidden consequence of social process.
- Dysfunction — negative outcome affecting societal stability.
- Constructivism — idea that reality is socially constructed through interaction.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the main features of functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism.
- Compare how each theory would analyze a social issue, such as education or food consumption.
- Prepare for discussion or homework on applying these perspectives to current events.