SY101 Lecture Notes - Lecture 2: Symbolic Interactionism, Bourgeoisie, Social Conflict
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4 main theoretical traditions in sociology: functionalism, conflict theory, feminism, symbolic interactionism, functionalism. Stable patterns of social relations or macrostructures govern human behaviour. Social structures based on shared values and norms. Social problems solved by finding an equilibrium: conflict theory. Macrostructures create division and conflict between dominant and subordinate groups. Ruling groups try to secure their advantages and produce social stability. Ruled groups struggle to change the system and create one that is more equitable. Capitalist societies defined conflict between the owning class (bourgeoisie) and the working class (proletarians) The bourgeoisie use social structures to maintain their power, while the proletarians struggle for equality. If the working class can become conscious of their common exploitation they will form a social movement that: abolishes private property, establishes a communist society, feminism. Patriarchy: social structure that subordinates females to male domination. Male domination determined by social structures, not biology. Examine patriarchy in micro, macro, and global social structures.
