Chapter One - Social Action Theories

Question 1

What is Goffman’s Dramaturgical Theory?

Answer 1

All the world is a stage, we are all social actors
We take on different roles in different scenarios

Question 2

What are social action theories?

Answer 2

Theories in which individuals shape society through their actions and interactions between each other

Question 3

What is Weber’s take on Symbolic Interactionalism?

Answer 3

> Humans are conscious beings and what they do has meaning for them .
Sociology should analyze the meanings people place on their own actions
Sociologists should gain verstehen (an empathetic understanding of others)

Question 4

What is Mead’s take on symbolic interactionalism?

Answer 4

> Societies are created and maintained through the repeated actions of individuals
These interactions are mediated by symbols, such as language, gestures and objects which carry specific meaning

Question 5

What’s the labeling theory?

Answer 5

Some teachers label students according to their social class background, not their ability
Most labels are based on stereotypical assumptions

Question 6

What are some criticisms of social action theories?

Answer 6

It doesn’t may sufficient attention to how social structures constrain action
Tends to ignore power distribution in society