Sociological Perspective

Sociological Perspective

Introduction

In sociology, sociological paradigms, theories or perspectives re complicated methodological and theoretical frameworks that play an important role in analyzing and explaining objects of social study as well as facilitate in organizing sociological knowledge. A continuous evolution has been faced by sociological theory due to which it can never assume to be completed. Analysis at a micro-level can be involved in it that is mainly focused on shaping the society by social structures. It studies the social interaction that takes place in some particular situations (Jonathan, 2006).

Discussion

Part 1-Theory of Functionalism

Functionalism is a macro-level theory of sociology which offers three major assumptions related to society and behavior:

Society is the name given to a system which is comprised of various parts that are interconnected with each other. If any problem occurs with the first part then it will be adjusted by another part in order to make the system 'function' properly. For instance, with the increase in unemployment rate, most of the people will approach their schools in order to get their degrees. A state of equilibrium (or balance) will be maintained in the society as its permanent characteristics while conflicts are for temporarily based. For example, there is an increase in divorce rate but marriage rate is also high.

People are more likely to have value consensus that serves as a behavior guideline. For example, it is mostly believed by most of the Americans that individuals must be provided with the right of practicing their own happiness that guides their behavior is selecting the most appropriate and suitable way of life for themselves (Jonathan, 2006).

Organization of a society or social structure is seen much important form the functionalism perspective as compare to the perspective of an individual. Functionalism is actually a top down theory. In a society, individuals are born and play a significant role in bringing social influences in their surroundings. Various institutions are present there to socialize them including religion, family, media and education. Functionalism takes society as a system comprised of a set of interrelated segments that are combined together. There is a kind of association among agents of socialism and all these parts and together they play a vital role in the maintenance of the society (Craig, 2002).

The key beliefs of functionalism are integration, order and social consensus as it helps the society to progress and continue. It is due to the shared and ...