1. Macro Sociological Theories
Structural Functionalism
Conflict Theory

2. Structural Functionalism
Sees society as a interrelated parts (social institutions, social forces, etc.) that work WELL together
Society is a “Structure” that “Functions”
SF sociologists
Davis and Moore
Parsons
Durkheim

3. Each Institution fulfills certain functions, purposes and activities, to meet different needs that contribute to a society’s stability and survival -Merton 1938

4. Mouse Trap
Each part serves a function

5. Functions “Positive” functions Manifest- intended consequences
Latent- unintended and unrecognized consequences
“Negative” function
Dysfunctions- unintended function that have a negative effect on a group or society

6. Education- Elementary School
Manifest functions?
Latent functions?
Dysfunctions?

7. Social Change IF it happens at all – it will be slowly over time
REMEMBER: Society and social institutions in this theory say that society works well with all of its interrelated parts
The social institutions work well – if they did not work well- they would (and sometimes do) change

8. Social Problems
Since Structural Functionalism is a MACRO theory it can talk about social problems
Macro theories only address macro issues and micro theories only address micro issues

9. So what is to Blame for Social Problems?

10. INDIVIDUALS
are to blame for social problems

11. How Does a Society Deal with Social Problems using Structural Functionalism?
resocialize individuals
Resocialization is when individuals “re-learn” culture to know what they should do
Total Institution Resocialization

12. David and Moore Theory Green Carrot theory

13. Questions about Structural Functionalism?

14. Conflict Theory Examines the ways in which groups
Disagree
Struggle over power
Compete for resources
Thinks that disagreements WILL happen and it WILL cause conflict so change is
Natural
Inevitable
Desired

15. The Have’s vs. The Have Not’s
Wealth
Power
Prestige

16. So WHO generally has the power?
WASP
White
Anglo-Saxon
Protestant
Generally males

17. Who generally does not have the power?
Minorities
Women
Children
Poor

18. How can we “see” this in society?

19. W.E.B. Dubois Studies racial inequality “seventh son”
Double consciousness
First African American to graduate from Harvard
“I was in Harvard but not of it”
Problem of the 20th century is the color line

20. Water gun war
Conflict theory in it’s simplest form

21. Questions about Conflict Theory?