The Sociological Point of View Current Perspectives Pgs. 14-17

Theory and Perspective Theory: an explanation of the relationships among particular phenomena. A statement of how and why specific facts are related. Theoretical Perspectives: a general set of assumptions about the nature of things. Outlines specific ideas about the nature of social life.

Functionalist Perspective Broadly based on ideas of Spencer, Comte and Durkheim. View society as a set of interrelated parts that work together to produce a stable social system. Functionalists = Society by Consensus Most people agree on what is best for society and work together to ensure the system runs smoothly.

Functionalist Perspective Functionalists view the various elements in society in terms of their functions, or their positive consequences for society. Social Dysfunction: undesirable consequences for the operation of society. Ex: crime

Functionalist Perspective Manifest Function The intended and recognized consequences of some elements of society. Ex. The manifest function of a car is speedy transportation from one location to another. Latent Function The unintended and unrecognized consequence of an element of society. Ex. The latent function of a car is to gain social standing by showing off your wealth.

Manifest Function of our nation’s system of higher education is to provide young people with the knowledge and skills they need to perform jobs and be good citizen. The Latent Function of this is as a “marriage broker” bringing together people of similar social backgrounds in a setting that encourages courtship.

Conflict Perspective Focuses on the forces in society that promote competition and change. Follows the ideas of Karl Marx. Interested in how those who possess power in society exercise control over those with less power. These conflict theorists do not limit themselves to violent conflict.

Conflict Perspective This group also studies competition between men and women, different ages, or people of different national backgrounds. Decision making in the family Relationships among racial groups Disputes between workers and employees

Conflict Perspective People must compete with each other for power and wealth. Once a group gains this it creates rules in order to protect what they have and keep it from other groups. This causes social conflict, and social change.

Interactionist Perspective Focus on how individuals interact with one another in society. Interested in the ways in which individuals respond to one another in everyday situations. Also interested in the meanings that individuals attach to their own actions and to the actions of others

Interactionist Perspective Followed the work of Max Weber Particularly interested in symbols. Symbol: anything that represents something else. Members of society must agree on the meaning of the symbol. Ex. Physical objects, gestures, words, and events. Give examples of these

Interactionist Perspective Interactionist focus on how people use symbols when interacting. Also known as symbolic interaction. Used to study relationships between groups, mate selection, child development. Popular in U.S. Which theory or perspective should you use? Combing elements from all three helps to understand human behavior.