Theories:

Question 1

Evaluate the view that sociology is a science:

How can sociology be seen as being a science? e.g. objectivity (positivists)

Answer 1

He believed these social facts could be measured just like things in nature e.g. Durkheim’s study of suicide

He used data to show that social patterns could be studied scientifically, proving that sociology can be objective and based on real evidence.

Question 2

Criticisms:

Criticism of the idea that sociology is science due to objectivity?

Answer 2

Durkheim overlooks the personal reasons behind people’s actions l suicide and these meanings is why sociology is not a science as science ignores subjectivity

Question 3

Evaluate the view that sociology is a science:

How can sociology be seen as being a science? e.g. quantitative methods (positivists) (objectivity)

Answer 3

While Durkheim’s use of quantitative methods helped identify patterns, critics argue that it oversimplifies complex social phenomena by reducing them to numbers.

Human behavior is influenced by many factors that can’t always be captured through statistics, meaning that important nuances may be missed.

Question 4

Evaluate the view that socioloy is a science:

How is sociology not a science? e.g. overlooks personal experiences (interpretivists) (subjectivity)

Answer 4

Interpretivists criticize Durkheim’s quantitative approach because it overlooks the subjective meanings and personal experiences behind social behaviours.

They argue that by focusing on numbers and general patterns, Durkheim ignores the importance of understanding how individuals interpret their own actions, such as suicide as it helps to gain deeper insights into the meanings and motivations behind people’s behaviour.

Question 5

Evaluate the view that sociology is a science:

How can sociology be seen as not being a science? e.g. human behaviour (interpretivists) (subjectivity)

Answer 5

Human behavior is subjective, meaning it’s influenced by emotions, personal experiences, and values. Unlike natural sciences, where things can be measured and observed objectively, human actions are harder to study in the same way.

For example, two people might see the same event differently because of their backgrounds or beliefs. This makes it hard for sociologists to be completely objective and measure behavior like scientists do in other fields.

Question 6

Evaluate the view that sociologist is a science:

How can sociology be seen as a science? e.g. Spotting trends (positivists) (subjectivity)

Answer 6

One criticism of this view is that it focuses too much on personal opinions and ignores how bigger social forces shape people’s behaviour.

Even though people act based on their own experiences, sociologists can still spot patterns and trends across society. For example, issues like poverty and inequality can be studied in a way that includes both personal stories and real facts or statistics.

Question 7

Evaluate the view that sociology is a science:

How can sociology be seen as not being a science? e.g. influenced by multiple perspectives (subjectivity) (interpretivists)

Answer 7

Sociology can be seen as not being a science because it is influenced by multiple perspectives, or paradigms, that shape how social issues are understood.

Unlike natural sciences, which often follow a single framework, sociology has different theories like conflict theory and functionalism that interpret the same issue in various ways. This lack of agreement between theories makes sociology less consistent and objective compared to other sciences.

Question 8

Evaluate the view that sociology is a science:

How can sociology not be seen as a science? e.g. different perspectives

Answer 8

Just because sociology has different views doesn’t mean it’s not scientific. It shows that society is complicated and can’t be explained by just one idea. Like in science, having different theories helps us understand things better.

Question 9

Evaluate the claim that sociological research should be value free?

Why should sociological research be value free? e.g. helps keep personal values out of research (objectivity)

Answer 9

Durkheim believed that the use of scientific methods could help keep personal values out of research. He argued that researchers should use objective methods and collect quantitative data to study society.

For example, Durkheim studied suicide objectively by using statistics to identify patterns and social causes, rather than focusing on individual motivations. He saw suicide as a social fact, something that could be studied scientifically, by looking at rates in different social groups and examining the influence of social integration.

Question 10

Evaluate the claim that sociological research should be value free?

Why should sociological research be value free? e.g. human behaviour

Answer 10

Sociology can be seen as not being a science because human behavior is subjective and influenced by emotions and personal experiences.

Interpretivists argue that people interpret situations in unique ways, which makes it difficult to study them objectively. This subjectivity challenges the scientific approach, which relies on measurable, objective data.

Question 11

Evaluate the claim that sociological research should be value free?

Why should sociological research not be value free? e.g. explore personal meanings add validity

Answer 11

Values can influence sociology research through the choice of topics and methods. Researchers may focus on certain issues based on their personal beliefs, such as prioritizing social justice or economic inequality.

Their values also shape the methods they use, like choosing qualitative approaches to explore personal experiences or quantitative methods for objective data. As a result, personal values can affect the direction and interpretation of the research, making sociology less objective than the natural sciences.

Question 12

Evaluate the claim that sociological research should be value free?

Why should sociological research not be value free? e.g. harder to find universal truths

Answer 12

Sociology is not considered a science because it is influenced by various theoretical perspectives, each offering different interpretations of social phenomena. Unlike natural sciences, where there is often one dominant theory, sociology has competing frameworks, making it harder to find universal, objective truths.

This diversity of perspectives can create inconsistency in sociological research.

Question 13

Evaluate the claim that sociological research should be value free?

Why should sociological research not be value free? e.g. research should be used to change the world

Answer 13

Committed sociologists believe that the purpose of research is not just to understand society but to use that knowledge to make the world better. They think sociology should help solve real problems like inequality, poverty, and discrimination.

Their research should influence policies, fight injustice, and support disadvantaged groups. In this view, sociology is about making a difference, not just studying society.

Question 14

Evaluate the claim that sociological research should be value free?

Why should sociological research be value free? e.g. personal bias

Answer 14

Sociological research should be value-free to ensure that personal biases or beliefs do not influence the findings. If researchers allow their values to shape the research, it could lead to distorted results that reflect personal opinions rather than objective truths. Keeping research value-free helps maintain scientific rigor and reliability.

Question 15

Evaluate the usefulness of social action in understanding society?

How are social action theories (verstehen) is useful in helping us understand society? e.g. Verstehen (use sociologist)

Answer 15

Verstehen - Weber - understanding society from the perspective of the people living in it. He argued that sociologists should study social actions by understanding how individuals feel, think.

This approach helps us understand society because it focuses on the meaning people attach to their behavior and how those meanings shape social interactions.

Question 16

Criticism:

What is a criticism that verstehen is useful in helping us understand society?

Answer 16

Marxists argue that social action theories ignore the power dynamics of capitalism within society. People’s actions are heavily influenced by institutions not just their personal meanings

Question 17

Evaluate the usefulness of social action in understanding society?

How are social action theories useful in helping us understand society? e.g. symbolic interactionism (use sociologist)

Answer 17

Mead - Symbolic interactionism focuses on the small-scale, everyday interactions between people and the symbols they use arguing that our identities are formed through social interaction.

This theory helps us understand how people create meaning through their interactions with others e.g. how language shapes our social roles.

Question 18

Criticism:

What is a criticism that symbolic interactionism is useful in helping us understand society?

Answer 18

Feminists critique symbolic interactionism for neglecting the role of gender in shaping social interactions and this reinforces gender inequality and patriarchy.

Question 19

Evaluate the usefulness of social action in understanding society?

How are social action theories useful in helping us understand society? e.g. Dramaturgical theory (use sociologist)

Answer 19

Goffman’s dramaturgical theory compares social life to a play, where people perform roles in front of others. Goffman argued that individuals present themselves in ways that are socially acceptable, much like actors on stage.

This helps us to understand society as it shows how people behave differently depending who they are with.

Question 20

Criticism:

What is a criticism that the dramaturgical theory is useful in helping us understand society?

Answer 20

Functionalists criticize dramaturgical theory for focusing too much on individual performances and ignoring the broader social structures that contribute to social order.

Question 21

Evaluate the usefulness of social action in understanding society?

How are social action theories useful in helping us understand society? e.g. Labelling theory (use sociologist)

Answer 21

Becker -Labelling theory argues that people become deviant because they are labeled as such by others.

This theory helps us understand society by showing how labels can affect individuals’ behavior, especially in areas like crime and education.

Question 22

Criticism:

What is a criticism that labelling theory is useful in helping us understand society? e.g. focus’s too much on negative effects of labelling

Answer 22

Functionalists argue that labelling theory focuses too much on the negative effects of labels and deviance.

They believe that labels can contribute to social order by reinforcing societal norms and clarifying acceptable behavior. By emphasizing deviance, labelling theory overlooks the functional role that labeling can play in maintaining social stability.

Question 23

Evaluate the view of the usefulness of Marxist approaches to our understanding of society?

How is the Traditional Marxist view to understanding of our society useful? e.g. shows what institutions shape society

Answer 23

Marx argued that capitalism shapes all aspects of society, from and this perspective helps explain social inequality and exploitation ultimately showing how capitalism creates social divides

Question 24

Criticism:

How is the Traditional Marxist view to understanding of our society not useful? e.g. shows what institutions shape society

Answer 24

Feminists argue that traditional Marxism, while focusing on class struggle, overlooks the role of gender in the social structure and it fails to address how women are also oppressed in a patriarchal system and how this links to class

Question 25

Evaluate the view of the usefulness of Marxist approaches to our understanding of society? How is the Marxist view to understanding of our society useful? e.g. Marxism isn't just about class inequality (Neo-Marxism)

Answer 25

Neo-Marxists argue that capitalism isn't just about economic class; it also involves race and gender inequality. e.g. Gramsci - hegemony where the ruling class maintains power not only through force but by shaping cultural beliefs. Neo-Marxism is useful because it offers a more nuanced understanding of power and oppression

Question 26

Criticism: How are Neo-Marxists view to understand our society not useful? e.g. Marxism isn't just about class inequality

Answer 26

Feminists argue that Neo-Marxism continues to treat gender as secondary, despite it being an essential aspect of understanding how society operates.

Question 27

Evaluate the view of the usefulness of Marxist approaches to our understanding of society? How is the Althusser's Marxist view to understanding of our society useful? e.g. ISA's

Answer 27

Louis Althusser's theory emphasizes the role of both Ideological State Apparatuses (ISAs) and Repressive State Apparatuses (RSAs) in maintaining the dominance of the ruling capitalist class. Through both the RSA's and ISA's this allows capitalism to continue to happen as these ideas are not being challenged.

Question 28

Criticism: How is the Althusser's Marxist view to understanding of our society not useful? e.g. ISA's

Answer 28

Althusser's theory of ideological state apparatuses (ISAs) and repressive state apparatuses (RSAs) overlooks how these structures also perpetuate gender inequality. Feminists argue that Althusser's emphasis on class and capitalist domination neglects the role of patriarchy in shaping social power. His framework fails to account for how the ISAs, such as the family, education, and media, specifically reinforce gendered roles and ideals that limit women’s freedom and equality.

Question 29

Evaluate the view of the usefulness of Feminism approaches to our understanding of society? How are Feminists view to understanding society useful? e.g. traditional research

Answer 29

Traditional research often reflected the interests of powerful white men, which feminists argue led to biased and incomplete knowledge. Feminist research aims to construct new knowledge that challenges these traditional power structures and seeks to empower marginalized groups, especially women. This approach focuses on changing society by highlighting inequalities and advocating for social justice.

Question 30

Evaluate the view of the usefulness of Feminism approaches to our understanding of society? How are Feminists view to understanding society not useful? e.g. traditional research

Answer 30

Marxists would argue that true social change can only happen when both class and gender inequalities are addressed together.

Question 31

Evaluate the view of the usefulness of Feminism approaches to our understanding of society? How are Feminists view to understanding society useful? e.g. qualitative data

Answer 31

Feminists prefer qualitative data because it allows for a deeper connection between the researcher and the research participants, providing more insight into personal experiences. By using qualitative methods like interviews and case studies, feminists can explore the complexities of gender inequality and its effects on women's lives. This approach values the lived experiences of individuals, which quantitative data might overlook.

Question 32

Evaluate the view of the usefulness of Feminism approaches to our understanding of society? How are Feminists view to understanding society useful? e.g. qualitative data

Answer 32

Functionalists might argue that feminist reliance on qualitative data could lead to subjective interpretations, undermining the objectivity and reliability of research. They might believe that such methods focus too heavily on individual experiences, which can distort broader social patterns and fail to see the overall societal functions. Functionalists would argue that quantitative data is more effective for understanding how gender roles contribute to the stability and function of society.

Question 33

Evaluate the view of the usefulness of Feminism approaches to our understanding of society? How are Feminists view to understanding society useful? e.g. gender equality

Answer 33

Liberal feminists often use interpretive research methods, such as unstructured interviews, to explore issues like family dynamics and gender roles. This approach allows for a more nuanced understanding of how societal expectations influence women's lives and roles within the family. Researcher Anne Oakley, for example, used unstructured interviews in her study of women’s roles in the family, which she argued provided high validity by allowing participants to express their experiences openly.

Question 34

Evaluate the view of the usefulness of Feminism approaches to our understanding of society? How are Feminists view to understanding society not useful? e.g. gender equality

Answer 34

Marxists would argue that liberal feminist methods, such as unstructured interviews, often ignore the material conditions that shape gender inequality. By focusing on individual experiences rather than the economic system that sustains patriarchal structures, they believe these methods fail to address the root causes of oppression. Marxists contend that social change requires structural transformation, not just understanding individual gender roles within a family context.

Question 35

Evaluate the view of the usefulness of Modernity and post- modernity approaches to our understanding of society? How are modernity/post- modernity useful in our understanding to society? e.g. consumerism

Answer 35

Post-modernity is characterized by the idea that people’s identities are shaped by what they consume, not just by their work or social roles. In this society, consumption is not just about meeting basic needs, but about expressing identity, lifestyle, and status. People now often define themselves through their purchases, like the clothes they wear or the brands they choose. Advertising plays a huge role in shaping how we see ourselves. For example, brands like Apple and Nike sell more than just products—they sell a lifestyle and an image. People are encouraged to buy these brands to feel part of a certain identity or status, which shows how consumerism shapes personal identity in post-modern society.

Question 36

Evaluate the view of the usefulness of Modernity and post- modernity approaches to our understanding of society? How are modernity/post- modernity useful in our understanding to society? e.g. consumerism

Answer 36

Marxists argue that consumerism distracts from the core issues of class struggle and economic inequality. Instead of addressing the systemic problems of capitalism, it focuses on materialism and superficial desires, leaving the root causes of societal inequality unchallenged. As such, consumerism doesn't provide a meaningful or constructive framework for understanding the deeper social structures that perpetuate inequality and exploitation.

Question 37

Evaluate the view of the usefulness of Modernity and post- modernity approaches to our understanding of society? How are modernity/post- modernity useful in our understanding to society? e.g. globalisation

Answer 37

Post-modern society is also marked by globalization, where the world feels more connected through technology, culture, and trade. National borders become less significant as people can access similar content and experiences worldwide. Ideas, goods, and even people can now cross borders more easily than ever. The internet has connected people around the world, allowing cultures, information, and ideas to spread easily. Social media platforms like Instagram or TikTok let people from different countries share experiences and join global conversations, making the world feel smaller and more connected.

Question 38

Evaluate the view of the usefulness of Modernity and post- modernity approaches to our understanding of society? How are modernity/post- modernity useful in our understanding to society? e.g. globalisation

Answer 38

From a Marxist perspective, globalization is not a helpful framework for understanding society because it mainly benefits powerful, multinational corporations while deepening inequalities. It prioritizes capitalist profit over the welfare of workers and exacerbates global disparities. Instead of creating a more equal global society, globalization often leads to the exploitation of workers in poorer countries and reinforces capitalist control.

Question 39

Evaluate the view of the usefulness of Modernity and post- modernity approaches to our understanding of society? How are modernity/post- modernity useful in our understanding to society? e.g. science and technology

Answer 39

Although the world is becoming more interconnected through globalization, science and technology still operate heavily within national borders. For instance, countries like the U.S. and China are leaders in technological innovation, with each nation maintaining control over critical sectors like artificial intelligence and space exploration. These countries often prioritize their own national interests and security when it comes to technological advancement, such as through regulations on data privacy or intellectual property, showing that the nation-state remains influential even in globalized industries like science and technology.

Question 40

Evaluate the view of the usefulness of Modernity and post- modernity approaches to our understanding of society? How are modernity/post- modernity not useful in our understanding to society? e.g. science and technology

Answer 40

Marxists argue that science and technology serve the interests of the capitalist class rather than benefiting society as a whole. Instead of using advancements to solve social problems or improve the lives of the working class, technological innovations often increase profit for corporations, widen inequality, and lead to job displacement. This focus on technological advancement without considering its social impacts makes it difficult to understand the broader inequalities and social injustices that these technologies reinforce

Question 41

Evaluate the view of the usefulness of social policy approaches to our understanding of society? How is using social policy approaches useful to understand our society? e.g. limited welfare

Answer 41

Functionalists support limited state intervention to maintain social stability, believing that welfare policies help prevent social unrest without disrupting the natural order of society. They view social institutions as essential for stability and agree that some support is needed to ensure individuals do not fall into poverty or cause social instability. However, they caution against excessive intervention that could interfere with the functioning of social institutions.

Question 42

Evaluate the view of the usefulness of social policy approaches to our understanding of society? How is using social policy approaches not useful to understand our society? e.g. limited welfare

Answer 42

Marxists would argue that while the NHS provides universal healthcare, it doesn't address the root causes of health inequality that are tied to class structures. They believe that the NHS doesn't fundamentally challenge the capitalist system that produces wealth inequality. Even though healthcare is available to all, Marxists would argue that the working class continues to be exploited in other ways, and the NHS doesn't change the underlying power dynamics that create inequality in society.

Question 43

Evaluate the view of the usefulness of social policy approaches to our understanding of society? How is using social policy approaches useful to understand our society? e.g. progressive taxation

Answer 43

Marxists favor policies that aim to reduce inequality and redistribute wealth, as they believe the capitalist system inherently exploits the working class. Nationalizing industries or implementing progressive taxation can reduce the power of the bourgeoisie and shift resources toward the proletariat. These policies align with their view of society by attempting to reduce capitalist exploitation and move toward a more equal society

Question 44

Evaluate the view of the usefulness of social policy approaches to our understanding of society? How is using social policy approaches not useful to understand our society? e.g. progressive taxation

Answer 44

Functionalists would argue that the Living Wage policy might disrupt social stability and the smooth functioning of the economy. They believe that wages should be based on the needs of the economy and the roles people play within society. By pushing for higher wages, functionalists might argue that it could reduce motivation for some workers to aspire to higher roles or create problems for employers who might be unable to pay increased wages, potentially leading to economic inefficiency or job loss.

Question 45

Evaluate the view of the usefulness of social policy approaches to our understanding of society? How is using social policy approaches useful to understand our society? e.g. gender equality legislation

Answer 45

Feminists support gender equality legislation because it directly challenges patriarchal systems that perpetuate gender-based oppression. Laws like the Equal Pay Act and reproductive rights policies aim to reduce gender inequality by ensuring women have equal opportunities and rights. These policies reflect feminist goals of dismantling gender hierarchies and promoting social and economic equality for all genders.

Question 46

Evaluate the view of the usefulness of social policy approaches to our understanding of society? How is using social policy approaches not useful to understand our society? e.g.

Answer 46

Functionalists might argue that the Gender Equality Act challenges the natural division of labor by ignoring traditional gender roles, which they believe are essential for societal stability. They contend that distinct roles for men and women in the family and workplace contribute to social harmony and order. By promoting gender equality, these policies could disrupt the balance that functionalists see as necessary for a stable society.

Question 47

Evaluate the usefulness of the functionalist approach about understanding our society? How is the functionalist approach about understanding society useful? e.g. social stability and order

Answer 47

Functionalism is useful in explaining how various parts of society work together to maintain stability and social order. It focuses on how institutions like the family, education, and the government perform functions that keep society running smoothly. For example, schools teach children societal norms and values, preparing them to function effectively in society, while families provide emotional support and care, which are necessary for the continuity of social life.

Question 48

Evaluate the usefulness of the functionalist approach about understanding our society? How is the functionalist approach about understanding society not useful? e.g. Marxists and social stability and order

Answer 48

Marxists argue that social order is maintained not because of shared consensus but through the domination of the capitalist class over the working class. For example, the wealth and power of the bourgeoisie are preserved by institutions that function to maintain inequality, such as the education system, which Marxists argue reinforces capitalist ideology rather than promoting harmony.

Question 49

Evaluate the usefulness of the functionalist approach about understanding our society? How is the functionalist approach about understanding our society useful e.g. highlights the importance of social institutions

Answer 49

Functionalism is valuable because it emphasizes the role of social institutions in shaping and maintaining societal norms and values. It helps us understand that institutions like the economy, education, and religion have specific roles in preserving societal harmony. For instance, religion can provide a shared set of values and promote social cohesion, which functionalists argue is essential for a stable society.

Question 50

Evaluate the usefulness of the functionalist approach about understanding our society? How is the functionalist approach of our society not useful? e.g. feminists and social institutions

Answer 50

Feminists criticize the functionalist focus on social institutions because it overlooks how these institutions contribute to the oppression of women. For example, functionalism tends to view the family as a stable institution that serves societal needs, but feminists argue that it reinforces traditional gender roles that limit women's opportunities. The family structure often places women in subordinate roles, responsible for unpaid domestic labour, which feminists see as a mechanism of patriarchal control rather than a positive societal function.

Question 51

Evaluate the usefulness of the functionalist approach about understanding our society? How is the functionalist approach about understanding our society useful e.g. focus on social consensus

Answer 51

Functionalism offers a perspective that sees society as based on social consensus, where most members agree on the norms and values that guide behavior. This approach can help explain why social cooperation and adherence to laws are essential for societal survival. For example, the rule of law is often seen as a mechanism that ensures order and prevents chaos, which functionalism views as essential for the functioning of society.

Question 52

Evaluate the usefulness of the functionalist approach about understanding our society? How is the functionalist approach of our society not useful? e.g. Marxists and social consensus

Answer 52

Marxists argue that functionalism's focus on social consensus and cooperation ignores the inherent power struggles in society. Functionalism assumes that everyone agrees on societal norms, but Marxists point out that society is divided into classes with opposing interests, especially between the bourgeoisie and the proletariat. The idea of consensus is seen as an illusion that disguises the exploitation of the working class, where the ruling class manipulates the system to maintain their power and wealth, leading to inequality rather than cooperation.

Question 53

Evaluate the usefulness of the New Right approaches to our understanding of society? How is the New Right approach useful in helping us understand society useful? e.g. emphasis on personal responsibility

Answer 53

The New Right perspective stresses the importance of personal responsibility and self-reliance in society. This view encourages individuals to take ownership of their actions and decisions, which can lead to a more responsible, productive society. The New Right believes that when people are accountable for their own lives, society as a whole benefits, as it reduces dependence on the state and fosters a stronger work ethic.

Question 54

Evaluate the usefulness of the New Right approaches to our understanding of society? How is the New Right approach not useful in helping us understand society useful? e.g. Marxists and personal responsibility

Answer 54

According to Marxism, individuals' opportunities and life outcomes are largely shaped by their position within the capitalist system, such as their class, wealth, and access to resources. Therefore, the New Right's emphasis on personal responsibility fails to account for the fact that not all individuals have the same resources or opportunities to take responsibility for their lives, leading to a perpetuation of class-based inequalities.

Question 55

Evaluate the usefulness of the New Right approaches to our understanding of society? How is the New Right approach useful in helping us understand society useful? e.g. advocates traditional values

Answer 55

The New Right perspective emphasizes the importance of traditional values, particularly in areas like the family and education. They argue that maintaining traditional family structures, with clear gender roles, ensures social stability and the moral fabric of society. By promoting family values and encouraging stable nuclear families, the New Right believes that society will be more cohesive and function more effectively.

Question 56

Evaluate the usefulness of the New Right approaches to our understanding of society? How is the New Right approach not useful in helping us understand society useful? e.g. Feminists challenge traditional values

Answer 56

Feminists argue that the New Right idealizes the nuclear family model, which often places women in subordinate roles within the household and restricts their social and economic freedoms. This reinforces gender inequalities and restricts women's choices, limiting their opportunities in both the public and private spheres by promoting a narrow, heteronormative view of family life.

Question 57

Evaluate the usefulness of the New Right approaches to our understanding of society? How is the New Right approach useful in helping us understand society useful? e.g. supports limited government

Answer 57

The New Right stresses the importance of reducing government intervention in both the economy and personal lives. They argue that excessive state intervention leads to dependency and weakens individual freedoms. By advocating for a free market economy and minimal government regulation, the New Right believes that society can become more dynamic, efficient, and prosperous, allowing people to thrive based on their own efforts rather than relying on state support.

Question 58

Evaluate the usefulness of the New Right approaches to our understanding of society? How is the New Right approach not useful in helping us understand society useful? e.g. Marxists and limited government

Answer 58

Marxists would argue that the New Right's support for limited government intervention in the economy serves the interests of the capitalist class rather than the working class. By advocating for minimal regulation and lower taxes, the New Right allows capitalists to maximize profits while workers remain exploited and vulnerable. Marxists believe that this approach deepens the wealth gap and reinforces systemic inequalities, as it prevents the state from enacting policies that could protect workers or reduce the power of corporations.

Question 59

The relationship between Theory's and methods: What is the best way to study society according to functionalists?

Answer 59

Functionalists study society by analyzing large-scale data to identify patterns that maintain social stability. They focus on how institutions like the family, education, and government work together to create harmony and order. Using quantitative methods like surveys and censuses, they explore phenomena such as crime rates, educational outcomes, and economic productivity to understand how these factors contribute to the functioning of society.

Question 60

The relationship between Theory's and methods: Criticism of the Functionalist view of studying society?

Answer 60

Marxists criticize functionalism for overlooking the role of power and inequality in society. They argue that functionalists focus too much on stability and consensus, ignoring the exploitation and conflict between social classes that capitalism creates. Functionalism’s emphasis on social order tends to justify the status quo, which Marxists believe only serves to reinforce the power of the ruling class, perpetuating inequality rather than addressing it.

Question 61

The relationship between Theory's and methods: What is the best way to study society according to Marxists?

Answer 61

Marxists study society by examining both the structural inequalities and the experiences of individuals. They use quantitative data to analyze material conditions like income distribution and economic exploitation, highlighting class struggles. They also use qualitative data, such as interviews and ethnographies, to explore the daily lives of lower social classes and understand how capitalism shapes their experiences.

Question 62

The relationship between Theory's and methods: Criticism of the Marxists way of studying society?

Answer 62

Functionalists criticize Marxism for focusing too much on conflict and neglecting the positive aspects of social order and stability. They argue that Marxists overemphasize class struggle and revolution, while failing to recognize how social institutions help maintain harmony. Functionalists believe society works best when all parts cooperate, while Marxists focus on division and disruption, overlooking the role of consensus in social cohesion.

Question 63

The relationship between Theory's and methods: What is the best way to study society according to Feminists?

Answer 63

Feminists study society by combining quantitative data to measure inequality and qualitative data to understand individual experiences. They use surveys and official statistics to track gender inequalities, like the gender pay gap or underrepresentation of women in leadership roles. Through interviews feminists capture how gender is experienced in everyday life, allowing them to address both systemic issues and personal experiences of oppression.

Question 64

The relationship between Theory's and methods: Criticism of the Feminist way of studying society?

Answer 64

Postmodernists criticize feminism for its tendency to generalize the experiences of women, assuming a universal "female experience." They argue that feminism can sometimes ignore the diversity within the category of "women," such as differences based on race, class, and sexuality. Postmodernists believe that by focusing on overarching narratives of gender oppression, feminists can obscure the complexities and contradictions within gendered experiences and fail to account for the different ways power operates across various social contexts.

Question 65

The relationship between Theory's and methods: What is the best way to study society according to Interactionists?

Answer 65

Interactionists study society by focusing on everyday interactions and how individuals create meaning through their relationships with others. They use qualitative methods like participant observation and unstructured interviews to explore how social roles and identities are formed in daily life. For example, an interactionist might observe a workplace to understand how power dynamics are shaped and reinforced through the interactions and behaviors of individuals.

Question 66

The relationship between Theory's and methods: Criticism of the interactionist way of studying society?

Answer 66

Marxists criticize interactionism for focusing on individual behavior and ignoring the structural factors that shape society. They argue that interactionists' emphasis on small-scale interactions and subjective meanings underestimates the role of class, capitalism, and economic forces in shaping people's lives. Marxists believe that individual actions and perceptions are deeply influenced by broader economic and social structures, and thus cannot be fully understood without considering these systemic forces.

Question 67

The relationship between Theory's and methods: What is the best way to study society according to post-modernists?

Answer 67

Post-modernists study society by rejecting overarching theories and focusing on individual experiences, viewing knowledge as fragmented and subjective. They use qualitative methods like media analysis and cultural studies to explore how different groups perceive the world and how power is embedded in societal structures. By examining language, symbols, and media, post-modernists aim to uncover how dominant narratives shape our understanding and often marginalize alternative viewpoints.

Question 68

The relationship between Theory's and methods: Criticism of the post-modernists way of studying society?

Answer 68

Functionalists criticize post-modernism for being too relativistic and rejecting objective truth. They argue that post-modernists’ emphasis on the fragmentation of knowledge and the rejection of universal truths leads to a lack of cohesion in understanding society. By denying the existence of objective social facts, functionalists believe that post-modernism makes it difficult to establish any shared basis for social cooperation or collective action, undermining efforts to build a stable society.