The theoretical approaches SOC 142

The Blind Men of Indostan

Theories-> Perspectives Theories are perspectives They are a way of looking at the world Theories often reflect the people who influenced them

Functionalist Perspective Based largely on the works of- Herbert Spencer Emile Durkheim Talcott Parsons Robert Merton Clockwise, from left: Spencer, Durkheim, Parsons, Merton- Courtesy: Google Images Society is a system consisting of interconnected parts These parts work together in harmony to maintain equilibrium for society as a whole

Functionalist Perspective (Contd.) The functionalist perspective emphasizes interconnectedness of all parts Each part influences and is in turn influenced by other parts For example: World Wars-> Men off to war-> Women work outside the home in larger numbers -> Men come back from war and take over jobs again -> BUT more women in workforce now -> More women go to college/marry later/have children later-> Family structure changes-> More involved role for fathers in parenting -> Establishment of institutions such as day care-> More women in workplace-> Changing gender roles and expectations-> Policies regarding women in the workplace.

Elements of Functionalist Perspective Functionalists – Function Dysfunction Describe the effects of social elements in society Functional elements contribute to stability and equilibrium Dysfunctional elements disrupt stability For example: Crime: Both functional and dysfunctional Two types of functions Manifest- Functions of social elements which are commonly recognized and intended Latent- Functions of social elements which are not commonly recognized and unintended For example: University- Manifest function Latent function

Functionalist Approach to Pop Culture “Obsession with ….athletics, celebrity magazines….can be explained in terms of their social uses (or literally their function) in generating solidarity among individuals within large and anonymous communities” (Grazian,2010)

Foundations of the Functionalist Approach Emile Durkheim The function of religion in social life Family of Rabbis but non-observant himself Begins his studies with animistic societies- religions was “central organizing” principle THE form of social identification Many religions rely heavily on signs and symbols- what is the purpose (function) of these symbols? Collective Conscience - represents the people- Collective Effervescence- shared identity Sacred and Profane- symbols help distinguish between sacred and profane This in turn helps distinguish between in-group and out-group Religion is the glue that holds people (and society) together “The former gods are growing old or dying, and others have not been born.” Who are the new gods?

Religion to Sports Sports function as providing solidarity and community Are athletes our new gods? Sports as an outlet for aggression? Are celebrities our new gods? Imagined Community- members of a collective audience sharing simultaneity of the moment Pseudo Events- happenings held for “the immediate purpose of being reported or reproduced”

Sports and Celebrityhood Both help us reflect on the human condition- on ourselves Current trend of celebrity babies- babies as accessories Help us air our thoughts Helps ensure solidarity through discussion (gossip) Start trends which ensure solidarity

Mad Men- Pop Culture Reflection What does Mad Men tell us about us? Set in the 60s Homophobia, racism, sexism

Rituals of Rebellion Max Gluckman 1963 Rituals of Rebellion Seemingly transgressive rituals Ultimate purpose is to restore social order Institutionalized protest- a way to vent without repercussions Reminder of the dominant norms and values South Indian Marriage ritual- rice and salt elephant

Darker Functions of Popular Culture The power of popular culture does not benefit all members equally Popular culture can- and does- reinforce sexism/racism/other –isms

Darker Functions of Pop Culture (contd.) Native American nicknames, logos, and mascots in sports Do such nicknames reinforce stereotypes about Native Americans or “Indians”?

Stereotypes in Popular Culture- functions? Movie Clip- Crash