Reference no: EM133419572
Questions: Pick a societal topic that affects people. From the perspective of each sociological theory (structural-functional, social-conflict, and symbolic-interaction), why is the topic viewed as a societal issue? Here are some helpful steps to follow when applying each theory to the topic:
STRUCTURAL-FUNCTIONAL THEORY
-What are all of the "parts" from society that relate to your topic? List all parts.
-Describe how manifest & latent functions relate to your topic.
-Is there a part causing dysfunction, making it harder for society to operate? Explain.
SOCIAL-CONFLICT THEORY
-Explain how people are divided up in the U.S. with regards to this topic. In particular, think of the types of divisions referred to by social-conflict theory in chapter 1 (e.g., social class, race, gender). You could also mention other ways that inequalities exist in the U.S. with regards to your topic (e.g., religion, LGBTQ+, age).
- How do these divisions and inequalities lead to some benefitting and some experiencing maltreatment? Explain with examples that relate to your topic.
-What are some ways that people are trying to create social change so that inequalities are reduced? Explain.
SYMBOLIC-INTERACTION THEORY
-What meanings are people attaching to this topic and their experiences with it?
-How do people act towards things based on the meanings they have about them?
-How does this topic show up based on the everyday interactions of individuals?