Analysis on Three Main Sociological Theories
Contextual Relevance of Modern Sociological Perspectives: an Analysis on the Three Main Sociological Theories
Abstract: When taking into consideration all social sciences, numerous behavioral and cognitive theories have been developed and revised over the years. Although this is true, some of the more influential and accurate theories have remained almost completely unchanged yet they still envelope modern day perspectives. Symbolic interactionism, functional analysis, and the conflict theory are among these main theories; they have been used to described various factors in society and still continue to hold true to their definitions. With further exploration and research, an overview on these concepts will be given with contextual evidence.
Keywords: symbolic interactionism, functional analysis, conflict theory, social science, sociology, behavioral, cognitive
Sociological theories are used to describe and explain just about any occurrence in society. From cultural customs and traditions, to street and white collar crime, to changes in social norms, the main perspectives can be used to find out their true purpose and origin. Every established sociologist has their own views, but for the most part they will fall into categories having to do with the main three perspectives. For each topic, there are also many subtopic perspectives and theories to assist in explaining some of the more specific events throughout life. For now, an overview between symbolic interactionism, functional analysis, and the conflict theory will be given, with contextual evidence of each.
Symbolic interactionism can be defined as an individual acting upon or towards something based on their prior interaction or interpretation with that subject. Any and all past experiences and feelings are combined to form a reaction to the subject. A great example brought up by James Henslin is the meaning of marriage and all of its components. This includes factors such as
Abstract: When taking into consideration all social sciences, numerous behavioral and cognitive theories have been developed and revised over the years. Although this is true, some of the more influential and accurate theories have remained almost completely unchanged yet they still envelope modern day perspectives. Symbolic interactionism, functional analysis, and the conflict theory are among these main theories; they have been used to described various factors in society and still continue to hold true to their definitions. With further exploration and research, an overview on these concepts will be given with contextual evidence.
Keywords: symbolic interactionism, functional analysis, conflict theory, social science, sociology, behavioral, cognitive
Sociological theories are used to describe and explain just about any occurrence in society. From cultural customs and traditions, to street and white collar crime, to changes in social norms, the main perspectives can be used to find out their true purpose and origin. Every established sociologist has their own views, but for the most part they will fall into categories having to do with the main three perspectives. For each topic, there are also many subtopic perspectives and theories to assist in explaining some of the more specific events throughout life. For now, an overview between symbolic interactionism, functional analysis, and the conflict theory will be given, with contextual evidence of each.
Symbolic interactionism can be defined as an individual acting upon or towards something based on their prior interaction or interpretation with that subject. Any and all past experiences and feelings are combined to form a reaction to the subject. A great example brought up by James Henslin is the meaning of marriage and all of its components. This includes factors such as
Cited: Bancroft, Angues and Sioned Rogers, edited by Pierre Stapley (2010). Emile Durkheim-Functional Explanation. Cardiff University, School of Social Sciences. http://www.cf.ac.uk/ socsi/undergraduate/introsoc/durkheim8.html Charon, Joel M. (2004). Symbolic Interactionism An Introduction, An Interpretation, An Integration. Boston: Pearson. pg. 31. Henslin, James M. (2013). Essentials of Sociology: A Down-to-Earth Approach. Boston: Pearson. pg. 16-7, Sears, Alan. (2008) A Good Book, In Theory: A Guide to Theoretical Thinking. North York: Higher Education University of Toronto Press, pg. 34-6.