Sociological Theories And The Structural Functional Theory

Sociological Theories: Compare and Contrast The Structural-Functional theory definition: Two theorist who were major contributors to the structural functional theory where Herbert Spencer and Robert Merton. Also known as functionalism, it is a framework for building theory that views society as a complex system whose parts work together to promote stability and solidarity. Important concepts in the perspective of functionalism include social structure, social functions, latent functions and manifest functions. A few examples of structural functional theory are in families, communities, religious organizations and certain rituals such as a handshaking give structure to our everyday lives. Functionalism is a structural consensus sociological theory that is a key theory developed by Emile Durkheim, one of the founding fathers of sociology. Her theory sees society as a mega structure of interrelated social institutions such as schools and our legal system. Structural functional theorist believe that all parts of a society work together to maintain functioning balance o f the society The Social Conflict theory definition: Conflict theory holds that social order is maintained by domination and power rather than consensus and conformity. According to the conflict theory researched and introduced by Karl Marx states society is in a state of perpetual conflict due to competition for limited resources. Meaning those with wealth and power try to hold on to it by any meansShow MoreRelatedThe Core Concepts Of Sociology1578 Words   |  7 PagesThe core concepts of sociology are a combination of original theories with improved sociological approaches that build upon them over time. Sociology utilizes three main theories to approach the study of society with different focus points that result in different outcomes. 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Theory and Methodology Merton was a functional theorist that focused on â€Å"middle range† events or circumstances in society. His research and theories focused on societal occurrences that were not overly specific or abstract. Merton also distinguished between the functions of actions and beliefs in part to address the criticisms of early organic functional theories. He theorized different functions meant that not all actions and beliefs were directly meant to serve or meet a functional end inRead MoreEssay about Socilogical Perspective on Crash877 Words   |  4 Pagesinsight when dissected using sociological perspective. There are three ways to look into this perspective; the Structural-Functional, the Social-Conflict, and the Symbolic Interaction. Sociological Perspective is the view of sociology to see general patterns of in the lives of particular people. Each of the areas of the sociological perspective is evident in this movie. 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