Structural Functionalism Case Study

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Recommended: Compare and contrast conflict theory with structural functionalism

INTRODUCTION: This paper applies a comparative sociology framework with qualitative methodology to the case of GMOs to inform discussions regarding balancing individual freedom and economic freedom in society. The comparative sociology framework of a structural functionalism and conflict theory is applied to the case of GMOs. The purpose of this investigation is to analyze how GMOs affect the balance between economic progress and social stability. The perspectives of both the conflict and structural functionalist theories on GMOs are portrayed. The method being utilized is a qualitative case study using document analysis of internet and other computer searches. Following the introduction, there is a brief discussion of the theory and methods. …show more content…

The structural functionalist theory can best be described as seeing society as a complex system with many independent actors that come together as a whole to create stability (Ritzer 2007). In this theory the belief is all things work together for the system whether good or bad. The structural functionalist theory concentrates on the positive and negative functions of social structures (Keel 2012). For the structural functionalists, science is their truth and their answer. This frame sheds light on the functions of genetically modified foods in society. It explains the creation of GMO and how they can work for everyone’s greater interest. Conflict theory affirms the idea of intimidation and power being used in order to gain social order (Crossman 2012). In other words, when there is an attempt to dominate others, conflict arises to prevent domination. The structural functionalists are the proponents and conflict theorists are the opponents of genetically modified foods. These theories can be summed up as structural functionalism is beneficial to all while conflict is beneficial to …show more content…

This methodology provides tools that allow the researcher to analyze the data acquired through research (Baxter 2008). The researcher gains tremendous insight of the case being studied. The data collected represents the scholarly articles and readings found in relation to the “pros” and “cons” of GMOs. During the process of a qualitative case study, data becomes the evidence (Miller 2003). The data gathered is research from search engines, databases, and journals. The data accumulated was printed and sorted according to topics. It was carefully analyzed, highlighted, and labeled based on what information was being used for each section. These sections include the following: “What is GMO”, “The history of the GMO”, “The position of the advocates of GMOs”, “The position of opponents to GMOs”, “Case study of controversy”, and “Analysis and Discussion”. This allowed the information to be organized and easy accessible in the writing process. By doing a qualitative study, valuable and useful information was gathered that helps further explain what is being

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