SOC 2109 Lecture Notes - Lecture 2: Role Theory

• School: University of Ottawa
• Department: Sociology
• Course: SOC 2109
• Professor: Sam Alvaro

Document Summary

Theories: a theory is a set of interrelated propositions that organizes and explains observed phenomenon, a theory goes beyond mere observable facts by postulating causal relations among variables. If a theory is valid, it enables its user to explain the phenomena under consideration and make predictions about events not yet observed. Structure of scientific theory: conceptual plane to operational plane. Why is theory important: explanations can be described as the stories we tell each other in attempts to produce some order in our lives, explanations outline paths that lead to particular outcomes. They allow us to feel that we know why something happened, and whether, or not under certain conditions, it is likely to occur again. Theoretical perspectives: general explanations for a wide array of social behaviours in a variety of situations, provide a frame of reference for interpreting and comparing a wide range of social situations and behaviours.