Sociological Theories Flashcards
Interactionism
Labelling theory:
-suggested that labels come to define an individual
-labels are internalised and people see themselves the way others see them-this leading to a self fulfilling prophecy
-However labels can be rejected and self-defeating prophecies can be formed.
Criticisms of interactionism
-deterministic and passive, assumes that concepts such as labels influence behaviour.
-ignores some of the wider social conflicts that might shape behaviour, capitalism and patriarchy.
Postmodernism: Jean-Francis Lyotard
-Abandon the attempt to explain the world using metanarratives (grand theories) like Marxism.
-rejects the idea that one theory is right.
-no longer believe in one truth as is evident in the growth of fake news and credibility of journalism
-use small scale solutions for small parts of the world
Postmodernism: Jean baudrillard
-Death of social rest and rise of individualism
-social life influenced by signs and images
-can’t distinguish reality from hyper reality
-inconsistent norms and values
Criticism of post modernism
Structures in society still exist, class, gender, and ethnicity are still relevant concepts in contemporary society and limit choice.
-ignores power and inequality it specifically overlooks ruling class control over institutions such as media and education.
New Right Theory: Charles Murray
-branches from functionalism
-traditional
-anti state don’t like benefits
-value exams not coursework
-retributive justice system
-single parent families are harmful.
Criticisms: New Right Theory
-accused of blaming the victim, blame poorer for their poverty
-ignore class and gender or racial inequality’s
Weberianism
-Inspired by Marx
-conflict theory
-class: market position
-status: social standing
-party: political party
-ascribed and achieved status
Weberianism
Class: social closure in the form of cultural, norms and values exist to prevent those with an achieved status from breaking down hierarchy
Status: achieved through an individuals occupation and Market position
Party: labour conservative or have a certain motive such as trade unions to improve wages and working conditions
Criticisms: Weberianism
-mark argues that both status and parry are affected by your class. More economic power=higher community status=more political power.
Functionalism
-structural consensus theory
Argue there is a social structure that shapes individuals and believe a successful society is based on value consensus
-organic analogy
-vital institutions work interdependently
-each institution meet certain pre-requisites: adaptation, goal attainment, latent functions, integration
Functionalism criticisms
-Value consensus, ignores conflict in society. Marxists argue that values are set by those in power, feminists say the patriarchy. Religion can cause conflict
Marxism
-Conflict theory
-supports communism
-bourgeoisie=small wealthy powerful class own means of production.
Proletariat=larger poor class, exploited in the form of cheap labour, working class.
Criticisms of Marxism
Cultural dopes- aware of exploitation and choose to still conform, working class have dual consciousness and are to some degree aware of injustices.
Economic determinism- ignores other inequalities that may cause divisions in society such as gender, ethnicity and religion.
