SOCL 2001 Chapter : Theory
Document Summary
Easier to understand when you view it from a different angle: micro - broader level, macro - individual level. Functionalism: society is a living organism and institutions are like vital organs, emphasizes the role of consensus in maintaining order. Some reason why things happen, function that makes it perform, etc: e. g. Social norms is a latent function (not obvious that you get these things). Society has manifest and latent functions/dysfunctions: dysfunctions are problems; not supposed to do that. Conflict theory (karl marx: identifies power relationships that create different phenomena in society. Always look to see who benefits: social inequality results from power struggles between groups. Symbolic interactionism: focuses on how face-to-face interactions create the social world, individuals act based on symbolic meanings attached to objects and people. Through socializing, interactions, experiences, reading, etc. we understand. Functionalist says it performs an action for society: sets mark for possible outcomes, eases division of labor.
