Soociological Theories

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses three sociological theories beginning with structural functionalism. The paper explains that structural functionalism posits an interpretation of society that emphasizes harmony and supportive interaction between the various societal structures. The paper notes the criticisms of this approach and then turns to the conflict theory, which is the analysis of the way power and authority are maintained and instituted in society. Next, the paper looks at the many permutations of conflict theory. Following the discussion on conflict theory, the paper then examines the interactionist approach that emphasizes social interaction as a fundamental and essential component of any social system. Finally, the paper examines how these theories can be used in the analysis of religion from a sociological perspective.

Outline:
Structural Functionalism
Conflict Theory
Interactionism
Analysis: Sociological Theories and Religion

From the Paper:

"Structural functionalism is a theory or sociological perspective that sees society as essentially functionally integrated. As will be discussed in this paper, conflict theory contrasts with structural functionalism in that it views society as an amalgam of conflicting interests. Structural functionalism therefore posits a model or interpretation of society that emphasizes harmony and supportive interaction between the various societal structures. To expand on this distinction, structural functionalism is seen as a "... theoretical approach to focusing on the structures of society and their functional significance for other structures..." (Compare and contrast structural functionalism and conflict theory)."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Compare and contrast structural functionalism and conflict theory. Retrieved April 1, 2008, from http://66.102.9.104/search?q=cache:S3BioPfzybAJ:www.hkbu.edu.hk/sos c/soc/students/student_image/assignment1.pdf+Structural+functionalism+ %2B+conflict+theory+%2B+Interactionism&l=en&t=clnk&d=6&l=za
• Functionalism, Neofunctionalism, Conflict Theory. Retrieved April 1, 2008, from http://66.102.9.104/search?q=cache:HLjLjFvofp0J:s3.amazonaws.com/ste ffentchr/2259/Funktionalisme,_neofunktionalisme_og_konfliktteori_(Ritzer) .doc+Structural+functionalism+and+conflict+theory&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=5& gl=za
• Interactionism. Retrieved April 1, 2008, from http://sixthsense.osfc.ac.uk/sociology/as_sociology/interactionism.asp
• MARSHALL G. ( 1998) Conflict Theory. Retrieved April 1, 2008, from http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O88-conflicttheory.html
• Symbolic Interactionism. Retrieved April 1, 2008, from http://uregina.ca/~gingrich/319j3103.htm

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