SOCIOLOGICAL THEORETICAL PARADIGMS

Sociological Theoretical Paradigms

Sociological Theoretical Paradigms

Part 1:

Structural Functional Theory

Structural Functionalism is the theory which focuses on society as an entity in which all of the components work together cooperatively and cohesively for the betterment of the overall society. This theory emphasizes the functions within the structure of the main parts of society and the contributions of each for the overall society's survival and growth. The strength of this theory is that it emphasizes the necessity of functions within society. All components of society must have a function in order to survive and its functions therefore contribute to the overall society (Buckley, 1967, pp 45-137). For example, the economy of a society provides its people with a monetary base and the means to buy and sell goods (manifest function), while it also fosters social inequality as not all people have the means to attain the same level of income or wealth (latent function). Whether a function is manifest or latent, positive or negative, each component of society must serve a function or functions in order for society to survive. The main weakness or criticism of this perspective is that it is very conservative by nature and in its conservatism; it seems to justify problematic aspects of society, such as poverty and social inequality, as simply a way of life, thus legitimizing the status quo. This inherent weakness led to the development of a different theory which focuses on the conflicts arising from society, conflict theory (McKay, 1994 , pp 45-78).

Conflict Theory's

Conflict Theory's focus moves away from the cohesion emphasis of Structural Functionalism and focuses more on the inevitable conflict within society. Drawing from the works of Marx and Engels and others, this theory shows how conflict is the catalyst of social change and societal growth, rather than cooperation and cohesion. The strength of this perspective lies in its more "realistic" approach of recognizing the inevitable conflict amongst the classes and any other social relation that is based on hierarchal power structures. Inevitably those in power will exploit those with little or no power, resulting in an unequal set of statuses and roles. The main weakness of this theory is its overemphasis on the tensions and divisions between the classes and other groups in society as well as its tendency to focus on economic factors as the driving force behind all human motivation (Burrell & Morgan, 1979, pp 74-78).

Symbolic Interactionism

Symbolic Interactionism is a bit different than the prior two theories, as its emphasis is on small group interactions and individual processing of the meanings of symbols, rather than on the overall social structure of society. As its name implies, Symbolic Inetractionism focuses on the symbols within a society, their meanings, and ensuing interactions bewteen individuals and groups based on the meanings of the symbols as well as the subjective nature of the symbols' meaning. Social reality then is seen as constant ebb and flow as different meanings are placed on symbols, thus being defined and redefined ...