1. Module 3: Major Theoretical Perspectives
Sociology in Modules
Richard T. Schaefer
3rd edition

2. Major Theoretical Perspectives
Functionalist perspective
Conflict perspective
Interactionist perspective

3. Functionalist Perspective
Emphasizes the way parts of a society are structured to maintain its stability
Talcott Parsons (1902–1979)
Viewed society as vast network of connected parts
Each helps maintain the system as a whole

4. Functionalist Perspective
Manifest and Latent Functions
Manifest functions: open, stated, conscious functions; intended and recognized consequences of an aspect of society
Latent functions: unconscious or unintended functions; may reflect hidden purposes
Dysfunctions
Elements or processes of society that may disrupt a social system or reduce its stability

5. Conflict Perspective
Assumes social behavior best understood in terms of conflict or tension between competing groups
The Marxist View
Conflict is part of everyday life in all societies
Conflict theorists interested in how institutions may help maintain privileges of some groups and keep others subservient

6. Conflict Perspective The Feminist Perspective
Feminist perspective: sees inequality in gender as central to all behavior and organization
Often allied with conflict theory
Proponents tend to focus on macro level
Contemporary feminist theorists often view women’s subordination as inherent in capitalist societies

7. Conflict Perspective Queer Theory
Queer theory: the study of society from the perspective of a broad spectrum of sexual identities, including heterosexuality, homosexuality, and bisexuality
Foucault: what is regarded as normal or even acceptable human sexuality varies dramatically from by culture and time period
Important influence of gay, lesbian, and bisexual voters in 2012 presidential election

8. Interactionist Perspective
Generalizes about everyday forms of social interaction to explain society as a whole
Humans viewed as living in a world of meaningful objects
Nonverbal communication: includes gestures, facial expressions, and postures
Manipulation of symbols seen in dress codes

9. Interactionist Perspective
George Herbert Mead (1863–1931)
Regarded as founder of interactionist perspective
Work encouraged many sociologists to focus more on micro-level societal behavior
Erving Goffman (1922–1982)
Dramaturgical approach: people seen as theatrical performers

10. The Sociological Approach
Gains broadest understanding of society by drawing on all major perspectives, noting where they overlap or diverge
Each perspective offers unique insights into the same issue
Researcher’s work always guided by his or her theoretical viewpoint

11. Table 3-1: Major Sociological Perspectives11

12. Research Today
3-1: Looking at Sports from Five Sociological Perspectives
Have you experienced or witnessed discrimination in sports based on gender, race, or sexual identity? If so, how did you react? Has the representation of Blacks, women, or gays on teams been controversial on your campus? In what ways?
What of the five sociological perspectives seems most useful to you in analyzing sports? Why?