Theories of sociology free essay sample

Abstract The purpose of this essay is to discuss the three basic theories of sociology. The three basic theories of sociology are functional, conflict, and symbolic interactionism. These theories are studied on the micro or macro level. The micro level is the sum of interactions between people and groups. The micro level analysis is based on small groups and individuals versus the macro level which is viewed on a larger scale and looks at society as a whole. In the functional theory members of society share a common interest of values, beliefs, and behavioral expectations. In the conflict theory there is a constant struggle between resources and it varies upon social changes. In the symbolic interactionism theory peoples behaviors are examined in their day to day interactions with each other. CLASSIC THEORIES OF SOCIOLOGY In order to understand the classic theories of sociology we must be able to define what sociology means in full definition. We will write a custom essay sample on Theories of sociology or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Sociology is the study of how humans act in society and how the groups they belong to affect them as a person. Through my research, I have found the three classic theories of sociology are as follows 1) functional perspective, 2) conflict perspective, and 3) symbolic interactionist perspective. Now that we have listed the three classic theories we can take a deeper look at each perspective individually. The functionalist perspective also known as the social-function theory is a stable and orderly system that is composed of members that share a common set of values, beliefs, and behavioral expectations. In the functionalist perspective society serves as a function and contributes to the stability of the society. The functionalist perspective is analyzed on the macro level. Societies develop social structures or institutions such as schools, churches, and government agencies. Institutions provide educational opportunities, religious practices, and provide citizens with their social needs. The smoothness of how these institutions affect the community depends on how the systems function whether it be functional or disfunctional. The second theory is the conflict perspective that is also referred to as social-conflict. The conflict perspective is viewed as a situation where groups in society are engaged in a continuous power struggle for control of resources or resources that are highly unattainable. The conflict perspective is analyzed on the macro level. Conflicts vary from politics to family discussions about financial spending. The conflict perspective isn’t based solely on one specific problem area. The conflict perspective focuses on three different areas such as: 1) struggles between different social classes of society that creates social changes, 2) racial-ethnic inequalities and exploitation of members, 3) the feminist perspective which supports equal rights for women. CLASSIC THEORIES OF SOCIOLOGY The third theory is the symbolic interactionist perspective that is also known as symbolic interactionism. Symbolic interactionist perspectives are examined by following the patterns of individuals day to day interactions and behaviors displayed in groups. Symbolic interactionist perspectives are analyzed on the micro level by focusing on individuals and small groups. Symbolic interaction is basically understood when people use symbols to communicate. Symbols are something that is meaningful to the person like a home that belongs to a family. Symbols can be portrayed by someones facial expression, tone of voice, or body language. These three theories can compare and differ in a few ways and by researching them I have found that the functionalist perspective and conflict perspective are both analyzed on the macro level. The symbolic interactionist perspective is analyzed on the micro level which is a whole different perspective and way to view how theories work by focusing on small scale groups. All three of the theories focus on society and how it is affected by members in societies behaviors. One change or shift in society can either make optimal opportunities to the community or create the start of a downward spiral. I have found that all three theories are based on society and how an individual person or a group of people acts or behaves greatly affects each of these theories. It is amazing the amount of changes that a person can go through by having to deal with social changes. Lastly, in order to explain which theory best describes our social reality we need to define what social reality means. Social reality is basically created through social interactions, individual motives, and actions. It is a little difficult for me to choose one theory that relates to our social reality that we live in today. I feel that we could easily fall under each theory depending on the circumstances. The functionalist theory is made up of different parts that all work together like a puzzle to build stability or a strong foundation. This theory involves CLASSIC THEORIES OF SOCIOLOGY families and large communities that have a strong bond formed to support one another. We must support and invest in our schools and churches to make a difference in our community. If we lose our church due to lack of finances then our community could lose its faith. The conflict theory is generally when there is a struggle for resources. Let’s face it, today we as a society are struggling with obtaining resources needed as the cost of living has increased in the last five years and with gas prices soaring, food products are sold in smaller packages yet the cost is still rising, and minimum wage is not enough to pay the bills. In my neighborhood, people are struggling all around me and clearly unable to meet their social needs. A majority of the people rely on the work link bus or public access to get to their destination. They are on public welfare and living off of food stamps, social security, and/or have been laid off due to employment cuts. The symbolic interactionist theory also relates to our social reality because it shows how behaviors are learned by interactions with others. We as a society can view symbols as a generous way of interpreting how others feel about us. For example, we have Valentine’s Day coming up this week and a lot of people feel that this is a way that we can show our significant others how we care about them. I personally would like some flowers and some dark chocolate candy but if my procrastinating boyfriend doesn’t go out until late that day and comes home with some random things I will still be happy and appreciate his efforts. So, for some people in society we require symbols as proof that our relationships our valuable to one another. Other members of society feel that symbols are unnecessary and feel confident with their relationships to require such things. I guess it depends on the person, time, and situation to determine which theory that our society relates to best. Throughout our lifetime we can experience each of these theories personally and relate to each one individually. We as humans experience great social changes in life and that’s what makes life so interesting!