People & Perspectives Foundations of Sociology

Father of Sociology Auguste Comte 1798 – 1857 Inspired by French Revolution Social statics (constants) Social dynamics (change)

Functionalist Perspective cont.. – Shared beliefs & values = glue that holds society together – Society = interdependent parts

Functionalist Perspective Herbert Spencer (1820 – 1903) – Influenced by Charles Darwin – Social Darwinism

Functionalist Perspective Emile Durkheim ( ) – Applied principles of science

Functionalist Perspective Modern Theory Society = interrelated parts Function = positive Dysfunction = negative – Manifest = intended consequence – Latent = unintended consequence

Manifest & Latent Functions Identify the manifest and latent functions of each of the following: – Birth control – Drinking age – Internet – Fast Food

List 10 goals you have for the future…(long-term) Do those goals promote competition?

Conflict Perspective Karl Marx (1818 – 1883) Society is influenced by the economy Workers vs. owners

Conflict Perspective Focus on aspects of society that promote competition & change Powerful vs. Powerless Competition leads to conflict…conflict leads to social change

Interactionist Perspective Max Weber ( ) Focused on the effects of society on individuals Verstehen = empathy

Interactionist Perspective Individual interaction Role/Meaning of symbols