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What are the main assumptions of conflict theory?
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Conflict theory assumes that society is characterized by competition and inequality, where dominant groups exploit resources at the expense of others.
Explain George Herbert Mead's concept of symbolic interactionism.
Symbolic interactionism explores how people create meanings through interactions and how these meanings shape social processes.
Define W.E.B. Du Bois's concept of double consciousness.
Double consciousness is the internal conflict experienced by subordinated groups in an oppressive society, particularly African Americans.
Why is it important to study sociology?
Studying sociology helps understand society and social interactions, promotes critical thinking, and is applicable to various career fields like analysis, organization, and understanding group dynamics.
How do macro-level and micro-level perspectives differ in sociology?
Macro-level focuses on large-scale issues and trends among large groups and societies, while micro-level focuses on small groups and individual interactions.
How does symbolic interactionism differ from macro-level theories?
Symbolic interactionism focuses on face-to-face interactions and the creation of meanings through these interactions, unlike macro-level theories that examine large-scale social structures.
What is the sociological imagination, and why is it important?
Sociological imagination is the ability to see the relationship between individual experiences and larger social influences. It connects micro-level and macro-level perspectives.
What is Max Weber's theory of rationalization?
Rationalization is the process of society becoming more goal-oriented and governed by rules and efficiency, exemplified by bureaucracies.
Summarize Karl Marx's conflict theory.
Conflict theory posits that society is in constant conflict due to competition for limited resources, focusing on the inequalities between the bourgeoisie and proletariat.
Describe the contributions of Harriet Martineau to sociology.
Martineau translated Comte's work into English and was a social activist supporting labor unions, the abolition of slavery, and women's suffrage.
What does functionalism emphasize in understanding society?
Functionalism views society as an ordered system of interrelated parts that meet social needs and contribute to social stability and equilibrium.
What is feminist theory concerned with?
Feminist theory focuses on gender inequalities and the social structures that perpetuate these inequalities.
Describe the main idea behind queer theory.
Queer theory challenges normative categories of sexual identity and examines how these categories are social constructs.
What did Auguste Comte contribute to sociology?
He coined the term 'sociology' and developed the concept of positivism, advocating for sociology as a scientific discipline.
What does post-modernist theory say about social reality?
Post-modernist theory argues that social reality is diverse, pluralistic, and constantly changing.
What are mechanical and organic solidarity according to Émile Durkheim?
Mechanical solidarity is social cohesion based on shared traditions and beliefs, while organic solidarity is social cohesion based on interdependence and specialization.
What is sociology?
The study of groups, group interactions, societies, and social interactions.
What is Social Darwinism, and who is associated with this concept?
Social Darwinism, associated with Herbert Spencer, suggests that societies evolve and adapt through competition and natural selection.
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