Sociological Theories: Functionalism to Interactionism

Sociological Theories

• Sociological theories are frameworks used to interpret and explain social behavior and institutions.

Functionalism

• Functionalism is a consensus theory maintaining that society functions as a system where all parts work together for social stability.
• Key thinkers include Emile Durkheim and Talcott Parsons.
• Core concepts involve social solidarity, value consensus, and social integration.

Marxism

• Marxism is a conflict theory that posits society is based on class conflict between the bourgeoisie (owners) and the proletariat (workers).
• Karl Marx is a key thinker.
• Core Marxist concepts include ideology, capitalism, class struggle, and false consciousness.

Feminism

• Feminism is a conflict theory focused on gender inequality and the oppression of women.
• Types of feminism include liberal, Marxist, radical, and intersectional feminism.
• Ann Oakley and Sylvia Walby are key thinkers.

Interactionism

• Interactionism is a micro-level approach focusing on how individuals interpret and give meaning to social interactions.
• Max Weber and Erving Goffman are key thinkers.
• Core concepts are labeling theory, self-fulfilling prophecy, and the "looking-glass self."

Postmodernism

• Postmodernism argues that society has moved beyond modern industrial structures into a fragmented, consumer-driven world.
• Key thinkers include Jean Baudrillard and Michel Foucault.
• Core concepts are hyperreality, identity, and social diversity.

Social Policy and Sociology

• 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

• Quantitative methods align with a positivist approach.
• Surveys and questionnaires quickly collect large-scale data.
• Experiments involve controlled testing of social behavior, though less common in sociology.
• Official statistics are data collected by the government (e.g., crime rates).
• Strengths include reliability and generalizability.
• Weaknesses include a lack of depth and understanding of meaning.

Qualitative Methods

• Qualitative Methods align with an interpretivist approach.
• Interviews can be structured, semi-structured, or unstructured.
• Participant observation involves joining a group to observe behavior (overt or covert).
• Case studies offer in-depth analysis of a particular social group or event.
• Strengths include rich, detailed data and insight into meanings.
• Weaknesses include being difficult to replicate and time-consuming.

Key Methodological Debates

• These debates underpin the approaches sociologists take when conducting research.

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

• There is an ongoing debate on whether sociologists can remain neutral, or if their values influence research.

Structural vs. Social Action

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

Realism

• Realism argues that both structure and agency influence society.

Ethics in Sociological Research

• Ethical considerations are crucial in sociological research to protect participants.
• Informed consent is required from participants.
• Confidentiality of participants must be maintained.
• Protection from harm to participants is essential.
• Participants have the right to withdraw from the research.