A-level Sociology: Theory and Methods

• A-level Sociology's Theory and Methods section explores sociological perspectives and research methods used to study society.

Sociological Theories

• Frameworks used to interpret and explain social behavior and institutions.

• Functionalism

  • A consensus theory where society functions as a system, with all parts working together for social stability.
  • Key thinkers include Emile Durkheim and Talcott Parsons.
  • Concepts include social solidarity, value consensus, and social integration.

• Marxism

  • A conflict theory where society is based on class conflict between the bourgeoisie (owners) and the proletariat (workers).
  • Key thinker is Karl Marx.
  • Concepts include ideology, capitalism, class struggle, and false consciousness.

• Feminism

  • A conflict theory focusing on gender inequality and the oppression of women.
  • Types include Liberal, Marxist, Radical, and Intersectional feminism.
  • Key thinkers include Ann Oakley and Sylvia Walby.

• Interactionism (Social Action Theory)

  • A micro-level approach focusing on how individuals interpret and give meaning to social interactions.
  • Key thinkers include Max Weber and Erving Goffman.
  • Concepts include labeling theory, self-fulfilling prophecy, and the "looking-glass self."

• Postmodernism

  • Argues society has moved beyond modern industrial structures into a fragmented, consumer-driven world.
  • Key thinkers include Jean Baudrillard and Michel Foucault.
  • Concepts include hyperreality, identity, and social diversity.

• Social Policy and Sociology

  • Examines how sociological research influences government policies and social change.

Research Methods in Sociology

• Sociologists use quantitative (numerical) and qualitative (descriptive) methods to collect and analyze data.

• Quantitative Methods (Positivist Approach)

  • Surveys and Questionnaires: Collect large-scale data quickly.
  • Experiments: Controlled testing of social behavior (less common in sociology).
  • Official Statistics: Data collected by government (e.g., crime rates).
  • Strengths: Reliable, generalizable.
  • Weaknesses: Lacks depth and understanding of meaning.

• Qualitative Methods (Interpretivist Approach)

  • Interviews: Structured, semi-structured, or unstructured.
  • Participant Observation: Joining a group to observe behavior (overt or covert).
  • Case Studies: In-depth analysis of a particular social group or event.
  • Strengths: Rich, detailed data; insight into meanings.
  • Weaknesses: Difficult to replicate, time-consuming.

Key Methodological Debates

• Core discussions surrounding sociological research approaches.

• Positivism vs. Interpretivism

  • Positivists believe sociology is a science and should use objective (quantitative) methods.
  • Interpretivists believe sociology is about understanding human meanings (qualitative).

• Value Freedom vs. Value-Laden

  • Explores whether sociologists can remain neutral or if their values influence research.

• Structural vs. Social Action

  • Considers whether society is shaped by large social forces (structure) or individual choices (agency).

• Realism

  • Suggests that both structure and agency influence society.

Ethics in Sociological Research

• Guidelines to ensure responsible and respectful research practices.
  • Informed consent is essential.
  • Confidentiality must be maintained.
  • Protection from harm is paramount.
  • Participants have the right to withdraw.