1. Sociological Theoretical Perspectives

2. What do you see????

3. Which man is bigger????

4. Is it a duck or a rabbit????

5. Is it an awning or a circus tent????

6. A young woman or a grouchy clown?

7. Although there are many sociological theories, most fall under one or more of three major theories: • Structural functionalism • Symbolic Interactionism • Conflict Theory

8. Structural Functionalism • Derived from Durkheim and follows from The Social Facts Paradigm. View of Society/Characteristics/Premises -“natural laws” govern society-system of interrelated and interdependent parts-parts must fulfill certain functions for smooth operation of society-society is objective, stable, and cohesive-order = consensus of members on common values-parts have fixed social roles-society has requisite (necessary) needs-dysfunctions are some times functional for society

9. Structural Functionalism Weaknesses and Criticisms: -conservative and idealistic view of society-underplays power differences among and between groups-ignores conflict and diversity as inherent aspects of reality-bias toward balance/equilibrium

10. SYMBOLIC INTERACTIONISM • Derived from Blumer, Mead, and Goffman...originating from Weber...and follows from The Social Definition Paradigm. View of Society/Characteristics/Premises: -micro level analysis-ongoing process of social interaction (taking each other into account in discernable ways)-individuals in face to face interaction create social consensus of meanings and definitions-like a “stage” where people define and redefine meanings as they interact-collective interaction-perceptions of reality are variable and changing-subjective---reality perceived in the minds of people-inequality demonstrated through meaning of status symbols-symbols of communication (language, thoughts, behaviors)

11. SYMBOLIC INTERACTIONISM Weaknesses and Criticisms: -overstates subjective basis of society-weak analysis of inequality-ignores material differences between groups-ignores structure and social forces-not synergistic-limits itself to micro level analysis with no connection to other levels

12. CONFLICT THEORY • Derived from Marx...and follows from a combination/synthesis. View of Society/Characteristics/Premises: -conditions giving rise to conflict-inclusive of all levels and analysis of them-Change is about internal arrangements AND about the system itself-Change is historical...temporal...ABOUT the system, not just within it-Change can be revolutionary...often quick and total-Change is inevitable given consciousness and material conditions

13. CONFLICT THEORY Weaknesses and Criticisms: -understates degree of cohesion and stability-little micro level analysis-ignores competition-is a “shadow” structural functionalism -appears to be reductionist (i.e. economics)-too open ended...appears to lead to chaos