Sociological Theories

Question 1

Functionalism
(Parsons)(Durkheim)
Consensus Theory

Answer 1

-Society is held together because people share a set of key norms and values. (Consensus)
-Functionalists see society as a complex system of interrelated and interdependent parts that work together to promote stability and solidarity.
-‘Organic Analogy’

Question 2

Feminism
Conflict Theory

Answer 2

-Fight for equality for males and females;focus is on researching how women are oppressed within society.
-4Types:Liberal,Marxist,Radical,Postmodernist

Question 3

Marxism
Conflict Theory

Answer 3

-Focuses on Capitalism;Believe that this oppresses the lower classes and benefits the higher classes.Reinforced Ideologically by Social Institutions

Question 4

Interactionist
Social Action Theory

Answer 4

-Understands relationships and social processes,such as conflict,cooperation and identity formation from communication and symbols

Question 5

Functionalist Theories

Answer 5

-Value Consensus (Parsons):Shared Norms+Values.
-‘Organic Analogy’

Question 6

New Right Theories/Overview

Answer 6

-Political Theory-Linked with Conservatism
-Prioritises Individualism
-‘Thatcherism’
-Value Meritocracy

Question 7

Marxist Theories

Answer 7

-ISA vs RSA-Ideological vs Repressive State Apparatus
-Cultural Dopes-People are aware of exploitation.

Question 8

Weberianism Theories

Answer 8

-Class-Social standing-Dependent on Wealth+Income
-Status-Unique skill sets which are in high demand result in higher status
-Party-Membership of Political Organisations

Question 9

Feminist Theories/Viewpoints

Answer 9

-4 Types
-Liberal-Do not seek revolutionary changes but work with existing structures.
-Marxist-Capitalism rather than the Patriarchy causes women’s oppression.
-Radical-Want a root-and-branch restructuring of society.
-Postmodern-Do not see women as a homogenous group.

Question 10

Interactionism Theories

Answer 10

-Labelling Theory (Becker)-Labels are internalised and people see themselves the way others see them-Leading to a Self-Fulfilling Prophecy.

Question 11

Postmodern Theories

Answer 11

-Meta narratives (Jean-Francois Lyotard)-People no longer believe there is one truth.Argues we should abandon the attempt to explain the social world using meta narratives ‘grand theories’