Theories & Perspectives

Question 1

What is Determinism?

Answer 1

It refers to our behaviour being determined by some external force - are we influenced by other people?

Question 2

What is Free Will?

Answer 2

It refers to an alternative view that the individual can exercise considerable choice and have a large degree of control over their behaviour.

Question 3

What is the main question?

Answer 3

Do we control our own destiny or do social forces determine our actions?

Question 4

What is Structuralism?

Answer 4

Those who emphasise the power of society over individuals are referred to this or Social Systems.

Question 5

What is Social Action?

Answer 5

Those who emphasise the ability of individuals to shape their own behaviour are known as this or interpretive approaches.

Question 6

How can Structuralist theories be divided? (2)

Answer 6

• those who see society based on consensus (agreement)

- those who see society based on conflict.

Question 7

Example of social action theory:

Answer 7

Postmodernism.