Social Groups in Sociology

Definition of Social Groups

• A social group consists of two or more individuals who interact, share common characteristics, and have a sense of unity.
• Social groups vary in size and types, ranging from small groups like friends to large ones like societies.
• In sociology, a group includes people with similar norms, values, and regular interactions.
• Types of social groups include primary groups (families, friends) and secondary groups (colleagues, organizations).
• The Philippines has three primary social classes: low-income, middle-income, and high-income, with a ranking system that sometimes places the poor below the low-income class.

Social Networks

• Social groups can be classified as communities in religious, ethnic, workplace, educational, and sports contexts.
• Examples of primary social groups include families, peer groups, classmates, and church communities, highlighting informal communication.

Theoretical Paradigm Definition

• A theoretical paradigm is a scientific perspective addressing observable phenomena through various viewpoints.
• It encompasses interpretations of society, viewing it as stable, changing, in conflict, or interacting.

Classifications of Theoretical Paradigms

• Evolutionary Paradigm

  • Suggests societies evolve through stages, much like biological organisms, from primitive to complex forms.
  • Examples include social evolution from clans to tribes, communities, municipalities, cities, provinces, and nations.
  • Notable proponent: Herbert Spencer, who applied Darwin's theory to societal changes.

• Structural-Functional Paradigm

  • Views society as an organized network where cooperating groups function according to social norms.
  • Social institutions shape societal organization and function, such as the family’s role in society.
  • Key figures include Auguste Comte (founder of sociology), Talcott Parsons (functionalism leader), Émile Durkheim (collective conscience), and Robert Merton (differentiating between intended and unintended functions).

• Social-Conflict Paradigm

  • Envisions society as an arena of inequality leading to conflict and social change.
  • Conflicts arise between dominant and marginalized groups, illustrated by class (rich vs. poor), racial (whites vs. blacks), and gender dynamics (men vs. women).
  • Karl Marx is a foundational figure, proposing that society is in a perpetual state of conflict over limited resources.