Questions and Answers
What does structural functionalism propose?
Who is considered the Father of Structural Functionalism?
Durkheim
What did Merton contribute to structural functionalism?
Allowed for a variety of functions including manifest, latent, and dysfunctions.
Conflict Theory focuses on inequality and blames the power elite for problems.
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Which of the following is a critique of Conflict Theory?
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What does Feminist Theory promote?
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What is symbolic interactionism primarily concerned with?
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What was Weber's contribution to symbolic interactionism?
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Symbolic interactionism is criticized for ignoring macro social structures.
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What did Cooley study in relation to symbolic interactionism?
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The principle of the theorem in symbolic interactionism states, 'If men define situations as ____, they are real in their consequences.'
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Study Notes
Structural Functionalism
- Society functions as an interconnected system where each part contributes to maintaining stability.
- Spencer proposed that society operates like body parts, introducing concepts of Social Darwinism.
- Durkheim emphasized social integration and "organic solidarity" through division of labor, identified the concept of anomie, and is known as the Father of Structural Functionalism.
- Parsons contributed to the theory in the 1950s by promoting social order and the importance of structures and functions.
- Merton distinguished between manifest functions (recognized/intended), latent functions (unrecognized/unintended), and dysfunctions (undesirable consequences).
Critique of Structural Functionalism
- Overlooks variations, social inequality, conflicts, and societal change.
- Criticized for being too general and macro, often blaming individuals for societal issues and having a conservative bias.
Conflict Theory
- A macro perspective that highlights competition among different groups for unequal power and resources.
- Emphasizes inequality and attributes societal problems to the power elite.
- Marx criticized capitalism, advocated for economic equality, and envisioned a classless society, focusing on class conflict.
- W.E.B. DuBois, a non-Marxist theorist, concentrated on social conflict, racism, and the pursuit of racial equality.
- Jane Addams, also a non-Marxist, was involved with the Chicago School and the settlement house movement, addressing poverty.
Critique of Conflict Theory
- This theory minimizes the importance of interdependence, stability, and shared values.
- Considered too focused on economic factors and overly macro, with a tendency to blame society as a whole.
Symbolic Interactionism
- A micro-level theoretical approach that posits society is created through individual interactions and shared meanings.
- Emphasizes subjective interpretations, symbols, and the importance of face-to-face interactions.
- Weber questioned norms and studied political-economy, while also exploring people's values for a deeper understanding (verstehen) of society.
- The Chicago School examined real-world contexts to meet human needs through sociological research.
- Cooley's work focused on identity formation through others' perceptions.
- Mead traced the development of the self and personality through social experiences and emphasized language as a symbol.
- Blumer argued that individuals learn behavior through their interpretations and interactions.
Critique of Symbolic Interactionism
- Criticized for ignoring macro-level social structures and broader societal factors.
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Description
Test your knowledge of key sociological theories with these flashcards focused on structural functionalism and influential theorists like Spencer and Durkheim. Gain insights into how society functions as an interconnected system and the concepts that underpin sociological thought.
