Sociological Theories

Question 1

sociological theories

Answer 1

logical frameworks for the interpretation of social life that make particular assumptions and questions about the social world

Question 2

Empirical data

Answer 2

knowledge gathered by researchers through scientific methods to support analytical conclusiosn

Question 3

macro level paradigms

Answer 3

theories concerned with large scale patterns and institutions

Question 4

micro level paradigms

Answer 4

theories concerned with social relations and interactions in specific individual situations

Question 5

structural functionalism

Answer 5

characterizes society as made up of many interdependent parts and seeks to explain social organization in terms of the functions performed by different social structures

Question 6

society is composed of

Answer 6

different parts with a variety of different functions such as, gov., fam. religion, edu., and media that contribute to functioning an equilibrium

Question 7

functionalists

Answer 7

believe that each section of society has a role/part. If everyone does their part we are well balanced. Each unit has its own fx and together makes the entire body of society

Question 8

if units in society are functioning in a way that is not valuable

Answer 8

they will amputate that portion of society and continue working without

Question 9

Durkheim, Parsons, and Merton

Answer 9

functionalists

Question 10

manifest function

Answer 10

obvious, intended functions of a given phenomenon or institution

Question 11

latent function

Answer 11

fx that are not recognized or expected

Question 12

Social Conflict Paradigm

Answer 12

seeks to explain social organization and change in terms of the conflict built into social relationships

Question 13

conflict theorists

Answer 13

Structured in a way to have conflict. Organized by what group you are in (gender, race, class) and their interests

Question 14

Marx

Answer 14

ex of a conflict theorist

Question 15

Marx believed

Answer 15

the capitalist class has an interest in maximizing productivity and profit and minimizing cost

Question 16

Symbolic Interactionist Paradigm

Answer 16

argues that individual self and society as a whole are the result of social interaction based on language and other symbols. People acquire their sense of who they are only through interactions with others and through symbols.

Question 17

Micro Level Theory

Answer 17

theory that studies individuals and their relationships

Question 18

interactionalistso believe that the

Answer 18

truth is in the details

Question 19

symbols

Answer 19

representations of things that are not immediately present to our senses such as words, gestures, and images

Question 20

power

Answer 20

ability to mobilize resources and achieve goals despite the resistance of others

Question 21

intersectionality

Answer 21

the idea that people’s individual and group experiences are shaped by overlapping oppression and privilege built into the structure of our societies