Sociological Theories Sociological theories are used to explain

Sociological Theories

Sociological theories are used to explain social behavior. 1. What issues should we study? 2. How should we connect the facts?

Structural-Functional Paradigm

Structural-FUNCTIONAL Paradigm

* See society as a complex system whose parts work together to promote solidarity and stability. * Social structure: a stable pattern of social behavior. * Social functions: consequences for the operation of society as a whole.

Organizes sociological observations by identifying structures of society and investigating their functions.

Core Questions in the Structural-Functional Paradigm 1. How is society integrated? 2. What are the parts of society? 3. How are these parts interrelated? 4. What are the consequences for each part for the overall function of society?

Issues with Structural-Functional Paradigm 1. Focus on society as stable and orderly. Ignores inequalities in society.

Let’s look at divorce through the Structural-Functional lens

Social-Conflict Paradigm

* See society as a place of inequality which creates conflict and change. * Highlights inequality. * How social factors are linked to inequality.

Core Questions in the Social-Conflict Paradigm 1. How is society divided? 2. What are the major patterns of inequality? 3. How do categories of people try to protect their privileges? 4. How do categories of people try to challenge the status quo?

Issues with Social-Conflict Paradigm 1. Ignores how shared values and interdependence unify a society. 2. Political goals. 3. Is too broad with social categories.

Let’s look at divorce through the Social Conflict lens

Symbolic-Interaction Paradigm

* Close up focus on social interaction in specific situations. * Society is the product of everyday interactions of people. * Society is the shared reality that people create through interactions. * Society is a complex, constantly changing picture of subjective meanings.

Core Questions in Symbolic-Interaction Paradigm 1. How is society experienced? 2. How do humans interact to create, maintain and change social patterns? 3. How do people try to shape the reality that others see? 4. How does individual behavior change from one situation to another?

Issues with Symbolic-Interaction Paradigm 1. Ignores large social structures, effects of culture and social factors.

Let’s look at divorce through the Symbolic-Interaction lens

Sports

Which Sociological Theory do you prefer?