Interpretivists / social action Flashcards
In what way is the social action approach different to the theoretical perspectives we have considered so far?
Only theoretical perspective to look at things from a micro perspective - focuses on meanings and how they are key to understanding society.
Why is the social action approach critical of all the other perspectives?
For ignoring the meaning religion holds for individuals and how this can impact their day-to-day actions and lifestyles.
Who is Weber?
He is one of the founding fathers of sociology, and the 1st to suggest studying society using an interpretivist, micro approach when doing sociological research.
What was the term that Weber came up with to describe what sociologists should have empathy in their research?
Verstehen. Weber believed that sociologists should try to empathise with the beliefs + values of those they are studying.
What did Weber put less focus on in his work?
Unlike other theories Weber focused less on the role and function of religion for societies as a whole, and emphasised the meanings that individuals attach to religious beliefs + practices.
What work is Weber best know for?
He is best know for his ‘Protestant ethic thesis’ on the rise of Protestantism and its effect on economic behaviour and social change.
What did Weber want to understand?
He wanted to understand the origins of ‘ethics’ of capitalism and suggested that these lay in the beliefs of the Calvinist branch of Protestantism.
Name the 3 Calvinist beliefs.
- Pre-destination
- Hard work being God-given
- Ascetic lifestyle
Describe the Calvinist belief of Pre-destination.
It is the belief that God has already decided who is ‘saved’ in the afterlife and that these decisions cannot be changed + will remain unknown. I.O.T cope with this uncertainty, Calvinists would look for signs of God’s favour in their everyday lives e.g. economic success.
What is economic success a sign of to Calvinists?
It is a sign from God that they are one of the chosen few who will be ‘saved’ in the afterlife.
Describe the Calvinist belief of hard work being God-given.
Calvinists see hard work as a God-given duty and as a way to honour him.
Describe the Calvinist belief of an ascetic lifestyle.
Living an ascetic lifestyle with a focus on accumulating wealth through minimal spending. If they could work hard and be successful, they could prove that they are among the few chosen to be ‘saved’.
What did the Calvinist beliefs give individuals?
Weber was interested in how the Calvinist religion gave individuals a framework by which to attach meaning to their actions (work + lifestyle). The belief system gave them a reason to work hard and to live an ascetic lifestyle.
What did Weber argue that the action and beliefs of the Calvinists lead to?
He noted that it was the beliefs + actions of the Calvinists that lead to the development of Capitalism, and so demonstrates how individuals can shape the structure of society through their action.
What did Berger try to do?
He tried to ‘update’ Weber work.
