Week 12-Strengths and Weaknesses of the Sociological Perspectives PDF

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Summary

Sociological Perspectives: Their weeaknesses and their strengths. ...

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Strengths and Weaknesses of the Sociological Perspectives.

STRUCTURAL FUNCTIONALISM strength o o o o o o

Reminds of the need for Order and stability Each institution serves a function Reminds us people have roles to play in society Order and stability is important for society Tells us how to create order an stability

weakness o o o o o

It fails to address big changes in society. Does not recognize the differences in society among power Not everyone agrees with order and stability of society, for instance the minorities in society and that this order and stability does not work for everyone Sees some social problems as functional. Does not propose ways of dealing with rapid change but rather focuses on reform.

CONFLICT THEORY Strength o o o o o o o o

Unlike the functionalist theory conflict theory recognizes that change happens. Reminds us that there is conflict for power, resources and money. Reminds us of the struggle for power As students we are struggling over jobs, school educations, etc, etc. Points out possible underlying reasons for conflict Proposes solutions for social problems, equal distribution of resources and power. The struggle for power is important to remember about what is occurring in society. 9.5 times out of ten conflict occurs because of resources, money and power.

Weakness o o o

Sometimes doesn’t have a definite proposal for changes, differences in how they should go about change Extension of class conflict based on Karl Marx and then sometimes confuses it with general conflict. Is conflict always about money, resources and power, sometimes it is just general disagreements that causes conflict.

SYMBOLIC INTERACTIONISM Strength

o o o o o o

Reminds us how we give meaning through interactions with others. That we are influenced by these interactions (looking-glass self ) Focuses on the symbols we create and how they impact our interactions. We create the world around us (norms, social conventions, beliefs) We initiate change Reminds us that individuals are the ones that create change.

Weakness o o o o

It reminds us we perceive ourselves based on how others perceive us. The self-fulfilling prophecy. Does not purpose changes at the societal level Loses sight of the bigger societal issues being that it is very focused on the more individual things.

FEMINISM Strength o o o

Reminds us of our need for equality Remind us gender is still and important aspect in life for both men and women. Promotes societal change and provides solutions for social problems.

Weakness o

Disagreements within feminism as to what the causes and solutions for gender inequality

POSTMODERNISM Strengths o o o

Reminds us that society is always changing More up to date perspective capturing fast-paced reality of life (the information age) Emphasizes the individual experiences of social problems.

Weakness o o

Does not always identify if all these changes are desirable Tends to ignore how groups continue to deal with social problems, not just individuals....