Theories

Question 1

What is conflict theory

Answer 1

Social order is maintained by domination and power, rather than consensus or conformity. Those with wealth/power try to hold on to that by suppressing the poor; people in society are competing for limited resources

Question 2

What is feminist theory

Answer 2

A movement to empower women in a patriarchal society. Aims to understand nature of gender inequality and that all genders are equal

Question 3

What is symbolic interactionism

Answer 3

Develops from practical considerations and alludes to humans’ particular use of shared languages to create common symbols and meanings

Question 4

What is an example of symbolic interactionism

Answer 4

A person changes his self concept and values in relation to another person he meets

Question 5

What is functionalism

Answer 5

Premise that all aspects of society: institutions, roles, norms, etc, serve a purpose and that all are indispensable for the long-term survival of the society.

Question 6

Mental states in functionalism

Answer 6

mental
states are identified by what they do
rather than by what they are made
of.

Question 7

What is rational choice theory

Answer 7

This theory states thatindividuals use their self-interests to make choices that will provide them with the greatest benefit. People weigh their options and make the choice they think will serve them best.

Question 8

What is social constructivism

Answer 8

theory of knowledge that holds that characteristics typically thought to be immutable and solely biological—such as gender, race, class, ability, and sexuality—are products of human definition and interpretation shaped by cultural and historical contexts