Sociological Theories - The New Right Flashcards
What theory is often considered alongside functionalism?
The New Right
Not everyone agrees that the New Right is a consensus theory.
What are the two main components of the New Right?
- Neo-liberal economics
- Traditional conservative views on social issues
What does the New Right argue about society in the late 20th century?
Society became dysfunctional and the necessary consensus broke down.
According to the New Right, what has undermined key institutions that create value consensus?
Government policies associated with the welfare state.
What is one argument made by the New Right regarding family structure?
Liberal left politicians and welfare policies have undermined the traditional nuclear family.
Who is a notable figure that argues the welfare state has led to the creation of an underclass?
Charles Murray
In which decades were New Right ideas influential on politicians like Margaret Thatcher and Ronald Reagan?
The 1970s
What do agents of socialization that create the value consensus include?
- Families
- Education
- Media
- Places of worship
What is the main criticism of consensus theories?
They are challenged by conflict theories.
According to Marxists and feminists, what does the illusion of consensus serve?
The interests of powerful groups.
Who argued that functionalism is a ruling-class ideology?
Antonio Gramsci
What is a specific criticism of functionalism regarding its perspective of society?
It is too optimistic and idealistic.
What do some critics accuse the New Right of lacking?
Objectivity
Fill in the blank: The New Right supports _______ and minimal public spending.
low taxes
Which two approaches criticize both consensus and conflict theories for being structuralist?
- Postmodernists
- Interpretivists
