Introduction to theories Flashcards
Macro approach
Macro approaches look at society from the top-down. An explanation is given for how society works as a whole, then
smaller groups/events are explained in relation to the overall theory.
Structural View – Marxists/Functionalists
E.g. littering occurs because the school produces groups of children who lack respect/discipline
Micro approach
Micro approaches look at society from the bottom-up. Individual explanations are given for smaller groups, which then
explain why patterns occur within the big picture.
Social Action View - Interpretivists
E.g. some are lazy, some are disrespectful, some have learned it from home, etc-
What is the basis of functionalism?
Functionalism is one of the key sociological perspectives and is known as a consensus theory as it is characterised by the idea that society requires shared norms and values in order for it function properly.
Who created the human body analogy?
Durkheim
Is functionalism a conflict or consensus theory?
Consensus
Who are the most famous functionalists?
Durkheim, Parsons and Merton
Is marxism a conflict or consensus theory?
Conflict
What is the definition of marxism?
An economic and political system in which a country’s trade and industry are controlled by private owners for profit, rather than by the state (government). “Pursuit to profit”.
What is the definition of functionalism?
A theory based on the premise that all aspects of a society—institutions, roles, norms, etc. —serve a purpose and that all are indispensable for the long-term survival of the society.
How does Marx say class conflict is created?
The relationship between the ruling class and the working class is called the social relations of production.
Marx said that relationship was unequal/exploitative, because the wages paid to workers is worth less than the value of the product.
What are the key points of feminism?
Most/all societies are patriarchal (male dominated)
“[patriarchy is] a system of social structures and practices in which men dominate, oppress and exploit women” (Walby, 1990)
Gender roles and gender inequality are socially constructed
Gender different from biological sex of an individual
Inequality generates conflict of interests between genders/sexes (conflict theory)
Inequality can be corrected through action
What is the superstructure in marxism?
The superstructure is made up social institutions such as the family, education, religion, legal system, media, politics.
The role of the superstructure is to pass on ruling class ideologies.
Evaluation of marxism
Marxists over emphasise class inequalities without considering gender and ethnicity
Marxists highlight conflict instead of consensus
Marxists underestimate the working classes ability to see through ideology/oppression by the bourgeoisie
What are the 3 waves of feminism?
1- struggle for basic rights (suffragettes)
2- struggle for greater rights and overcoming the patriarchy in public and private lives
3- challenging the micro politics of gender
What are the 4 types of feminism ?
Black, Radical, Liberal and Marxist
What is social action theory?
