Integrated approaches

Question 1

Weber’s sociology

Answer 1

Sociology doesn’t fit into structuralist or social action theory. Emphasises use of verstehen sociology (understanding/ interpreting world + behaviour of individuals). Study of Calvinism to support - found religious ideas people held lead to significant changes in the social structure. Shows understanding meanings behind actions can allow us to explain changes to social structures

Question 2

Giddens structuration

Answer 2

Attempt to combine structure and action - depend on another (duality of structure). Theory refers to process whereby people are constrained/ shaped by society but these structures only exist as long as people continue to take action to support them and they can also take action to shape them.
Existence of social structure provides people with rules + est ways of doing things that allow them to live in a society + reproducing the structure. Individuals can change the structure by ignoring/ modifying/ replacing rules - people shaped by society but it can also shape society. (e.g laws) - may prohibit use of cannabis but people may reflect on their lifestyles and choose to use it as part of their leisure lifestyles. If widespread use law would have to be enforced despite wishes of majority of population/ cease to exist to be an effective social structure