Sociology 2266A/B Lecture Notes - Lecture 1: Edwin Sutherland, Atomism, Social Relation

• School: Western University
• Department: Sociology
• Course: Sociology 2266A/B
• Professor: Matthew Yeager

Document Summary

Gestalt: functioning determined by behaviour and nature of the whole social system, sees behaviour in larger context, opposed to atomism, looks at macro configurations. Conflict: opposite of consensus model, between persons, social units, cultures, etc. Prevalent in societies with diverse value systems and normative groups: 2 models of society: conflict and consensus. Consensus model: social structure is functionally integrated system held together in equilibrium. We assume that: 1) society is a relatively persistent, stable structure, 2) well integrated, 3) every element has a function- helps maintain the system, and 4) a functioning social structure is based on a consensus on values. Conflict model: societies and social organizations are shaped by diversity, coercion and change. Power: in society, some positions have the ability to exercise coercive control over other sectors and positions, linked with conflict, ability of persons/groups to determine the conduct of other persons/groups, stratified interests.