What are the major theoretical perspectives in sociology?
Sociology includes three major theoretical perspectives: the functionalist perspective, the conflict perspective, and the symbolic interactionist perspective (sometimes called the interactionist perspective, or simply the micro view).
Who are the founders of the three sociological theoretical perspective?
Major sociological theorists or contributors to this theoretical approach include: Auguste Comte (considered the founder of sociology); Emile Durkheim; Herbert Spencer; Talcott Parsons; and Robert Merton.
What are the main ideas of conflict theory?
Conflict theory focuses on the competition between groups within society over limited resources. Conflict theory views social and economic institutions as tools of the struggle between groups or classes, used to maintain inequality and the dominance of the ruling class.
What is the bad side of functionalism?
Functionalism has been criticized for its failure to account for social change and individual agency; some consider it conservatively biased. Functionalism has been criticized for attributing human-like needs to society. Emile Durkheim ‘s work is considered the foundation of functionalist theory in sociology.
What are the disadvantages of structural functionalism?
Disadvantages
- conflicting interests are being hidden ideological manipulation.
- the whole that is being maintained is capitalism which is a socially and economically unjust society.
- economic changes are caused by the internal contradictions of the present social order; this is why capitalism is doomed.
What is the importance of functionalism?
Functionalism is very impactful because it looks at every aspect of society, how it functions, and how that helps society function. This theory helps combine all aspects of society to meet the needs of the individuals in the society. Functionalism shows us how our society stays balanced.
What is the importance of functionalist theory?
Functionalism emphasizes the consensus and order that exist in society, focusing on social stability and shared public values. From this perspective, disorganization in the system, such as deviant behavior, leads to change because societal components must adjust to achieve stability.