Structural functionalism Conflict theory

Symbolic Interactionism Postmodernism

Contemporary sociological

theories

Society is a complex

system composed of

various parts, like a living

organism.

All elements of a society

must work together in

order for society to run.

Social institutions play

key roles (functions) in

keeping society stable

(homeostasis).

Manifest functions are the intended and obvious

consequences of activities designed to help some

part of the social system.

Latent functions are the unintended, often

unrecognized, consequences of actions that help

the system.

Dysfunction & change: If an aspect of social life

does not contribute to society’s survival then it will

eventually disappear. If it has persisted, it must

serve a function.

Social order is the

result of conflict and

struggle, resulting in

inequality.

Karl Marx focused

on the relationship

between those who

own the means of

production and those

who do not.

Social institutions

legitimate the power

of some individuals

or groups over

others.

– Sees inequality in gender as central to all behavior and organization

– Often allied with conflict theory

– Proponents tend to focus on macro level

– Broadened social behavior by extending analysis beyond male point of view

█ Generalizes about everyday forms of social interaction to explain society as a whole

█ Humans viewed as living in a world of meaningful objects

Our access to the world is bounded by our language, our culture, and our social location.

Our behavior (including and especially symbolic interaction) maintainswhat we have learned through past experience, modifies the world to fit our reality, and creates a world consistent with our reality.

Nonverbal communication

Includes gestures, facial expressions, and postures

George Herbert Mead (1863–1931) - Regarded as founder of

interactionist perspective

I / Me

█ Erving Goffman (1922–1982)– Dramaturgical approach:

People seen as theatrical performers