Theoretical Perspectives

A way to view society, groups, and individuals

Symbolic Interaction

Herbert Blumer (1969), who coined the term "symbolic interactionism," set out three basic premises of the perspective: "Human beings act toward things on the basis of the

meanings they ascribe to those things." -meaning "The meaning of such things is derived from, or arises

out of, the social interaction that one has with others and the society." -language

"These meanings are handled in, and modified through, an interpretative process used by the person in dealing with the things he/she encounters." -thought

An Example

Apply symbolic interaction to two friends having a conversation. Our actions are being determined by the other

person’s actions Apply symbolic interaction to marriage and

divorce Our interpretation of symbols changes over

time. Symbolic interaction helps us determine our

relationships

Who do you interact with?

Who do you interact with?

Apply Symbolic Interactionism

Meaning, language, and thought

Apply Symbolic Interactionism

In the classroom.

In the hallway.

In the cafeteria.

Meaning, language, and thought

With a partner discuss…

Definition Meaning Interpretation Interaction

Symbolic Interaction and You

Remember our speech bubbles? – How did you define you?

What symbols did you use?

How are those symbols interpreted by those who you interact with?

How do you interpret those symbols?

Functional Analysis

Society as a whole unit is made up of interrelated parts that work together.

Society As a Living Organism

When all parts fulfill their function, society is normal.

When all parts do not, society is abnormal.

Applying Functional Analysis

Structure? Function?

Applying Functional Analysis

Structure?

Function?

Apply Functional Analysis

In the classroom.

In the hallway.

In the cafeteria.

Conflict Theory

Society is comprised of groups who are engaged in fierce competition for scarce resources

A struggle between the bourgeoisie (the haves) and the proletariat (the have nots)

(1818-1883)

Class Conflict

The Haves Small group of

capitalists who own the means of production and wealth.

The top 20% of wage earners in America hold 93% of the financial wealth.

The top 5% hold 72%.

Graphic: How Class Works - New York Times

Class Conflict

The Have Nots: The bottom 80% of wage earners hold 7% of the financial wealth in America

Ilya Repin’s Barge Haulers on the Volga

Impact of Marx’s Conflict Theory

Industrialized nations granted workers the right to strike Minimum wage Eight-hour days Five-day work weeks Paid vacations and holidays Medical benefits Sick leave Unemployment benefits

But is this enough to appease the have nots?

Conflict Theory Today

The constant struggle for power Who holds it? Why? Why must those in

power enforce conformity?

Apply Conflict Theory

In the classroom.

In the hallway.

In the cafeteria.

Macro / Micro

Macro – Examine large scale patters of society

Micro – social interaction and what people do when they are in one another’s presence.