Sociological Theory and Perspectives
Sociological theory and perspectives
This domain tests whether you can use competing theoretical frameworks to explain social structure and action, and compare them fairly. The exam rewards accurate use of key concepts and named thinkers, not just memorised labels.
Core concepts
- Functionalism: society as a system of interdependent parts; manifest and latent functions (Merton), socialisation and value consensus (Parsons), anomie (Durkheim).
- Marxism: economic base and superstructure; ruling-class ideology; alienation (Marx); hegemony (Gramsci); repressive and ideological state apparatuses (Althusser).
- Symbolic interactionism: meanings arise in interaction; the self as social (Mead's 'I' and 'me'); presentation of self (Goffman); labelling.
- Feminism: patriarchy as structural and cultural; liberal, radical and socialist strands; Walby's six structures of patriarchy.
- Postmodernism and late modernity: fragmentation, reflexivity, risk (Beck), consumption and identity (Bauman).
Worked example
Question: evaluate the functionalist claim that education transmits shared values. Reasoning: state the claim (Parsons: school as a bridge from particularistic family to universalistic achievement); then use a conflict counterpoint (Bowles and Gintis: correspondence principle and hidden curriculum reproduce class inequality); assess with evidence (labelling studies show teacher expectations shape outcomes); conclude that functionalism explains intended functions but underplays conflict and variability. Marks come from juxtaposing perspectives and linking to evidence, not from declaring one theory correct.
Traps
Conflating Marxism with all conflict theory; treating function as a purpose or moral good; attributing 'I' and 'me' to Goffman rather than Mead; using patriarchy without specifying a mechanism.
Key points
- Compare perspectives on structure versus action and consensus versus conflict.
- Name concepts and thinkers precisely.
- Use one theory to critique another, then assess.
- Avoid treating function as intention.
- Link theory to empirical patterns.