Sociological Theory

Sociological Theory

To be able to evaluate Functionalism, Marxism and Interactionism we

must first look at the strengths and weaknesses in each. There are

many variations and interpretations of each of these theories,

therefore for the sake of simplicity only the key ideals will be

discussed.

Functionalism looks at society as an organized structure of

inter-related institutions; and the various ways these institutions

interact together within a social structure. Examples of these

'institutions' are the family, work, education and religion. The

Functionalist perspective is best understood using an organismic

analogy: 'Societies are comparable to living organisms (for example, a

human being). Each part of the human body is linked, in some way, to

all other parts. Individual organs combine to create something that is

greater than the sum total of their individual parts.' In social

terms, these 'organs' equate to the aforementioned institutions. Each

of these institutions has its' separate role, and in order for society

to to function effectively, these institutions must work in harmony

with each other. It is also said that all parts of society have a

purpose and also certain needs. The 'purpose' of the work institution,

for example, is to create wealth and in order to achieve this it

'needs' people with a certain level of education. This example

demonstrates the harmony required between two institutions in order to

achieve a goal. Without education, the work institution would collapse

due to lack of skilled workers, therefore having a diverse effect on

society and all the institutions within that society. This view

recognise...

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...n those classes. Economic rule, however

does still play a prominent part in certain societies today, and will

continue to do so for years to come.

Interactionism looks at the individual and there influence and

understanding of other social groups. This approach has allowed us to

understand small social groups, which in turn allows us to gradually

understand social groups in certain areas. However, none of the above

theories will ever give us a true insight into how all societies work

together. By taking parts of each and combining them to make a new

theory is the only way that we may truly understand the social

structure of the world around us.

Bibliography

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Sociology In Focus - Paul Taylor et al- Ormskirk - 1995

www.sociologyonline.co.uk

www.sociology.org.uk

www.s-cool.co.uk