Theoretical Perspectives Flashcards
To summarise and explain the major perspectives of theoretical Sociology. (27 cards)
What are the three main theoretical perspectives in Sociology?
- Interactionist
- Functionalist
- Conflict
What is Interactionist Sociology?
A branch of theoretical sociology that focuses on how day to day interactions shape, and are shaped by, society.
What aspect of Society are Interactionist Sociologists Most Concerned With?
People.
Who is Max Weber in relation to Interactionist Sociology?
Weber (1978) is responsible for the Social Action Theory.
What is the Social Action Theory?
That societal structure is formed through interaction, meaning interaction should be the basis of theoretical sociology.
Who is George Herbert Mead in relation to Interactionist Sociology?
Mead (1934) is credited for laying the groundwork behind Symbolic Interactionism as a concept.
What is Symbolic Interactionism?
The way in which people interact is the product of recognised social meanings in language and symbols, and that these meanings are learned through interaction.
Who coined the term Symbolic Interactionism?
A student of Mead’s, Herbert Blumer (1937) who, along with Mead’s other students, published his work post-mortem.
What is the primary strength of Interactionist Sociology?
It prioritises the role of the individual, limiting generalisation and emphasising self-agency.
What is the primary weakness of Interactionist Sociology?
It ignores the role of social structures and institutions entirely.
What is Functionalist Sociology?
A branch of theoretical sociology that focuses on the systems and institutions that allow society to function.
What do Functionalist Sociologists Believe about Changing Societal Institutions?
That changes made should be done slowly, if it all, as not to disrupt the functionality of society through rapid shifts in societal values, which under the functionalist framework, institutions serve to maintain.
What did Robert Merton (1968) propose as the three major categories of consequence under Functionalism?
- Manifest Functions
- Latent Functions
- Dysfunctions
What are Manifest Functions under the Functionalist Framework?
Consequences of the societal system that are obvious and intended.
What are Latent Functions under the Functionalist Framework?
Consequences of the societal system that are unrecognised and unintentional.
What are Dysfunctions under the Functionalist Framework?
Consequences of the societal system that are negative and disruptive.
What notable term did Merton (1948) coin?
Self-fulfilling prophecy.
What is a self-fulfilling prophecy?
Allowing a false truth or perception to dictate future behaviour.
Who is the primary sociologist responsible for establishing Functionalism as a branch of Sociology?
Emile Durkheim.
What is the primary strength of Functionalism?
It explains and justifies the purpose of societal institutions.
What is the primary weakness of Functionalism?
Demonises quick social change and consequently often serves as justification for inequality.
What is the Conflict Sociology?
A branch of Sociology that focuses on societal inequalities, and how conflict between the privileged and underprivileged leads to societal change and progress.
Why do Conflict Sociologists believe societal institutions are created and maintained?
To meet the needs of the upper class or similarly privileged, rather than accommodating the needs of all people.
What do Conflict Sociologists believe about Societal Values?
That they are not as universal as generally accepted, and that people’s perspective is informed by their position within society rather by society as a whole.
