SOCIOLOGY HALL-OF-FAMERS
SCHOOLS OF THOUGHT
1. FUNCTIONALISM
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Functionalism
Society works in a
logical manner and
protects the interests
of its members
Society is best studied
as an organic system
like the human body
2. CONFLICT THEORY
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Karl Marx – economics and
power differences
Study the social patterns
and structures that develop
as classes compete for
scarce resources
Power/Conflict
Revolution not Evolution
Max Weber – many factors;
favoured bureaucracies
3. SYMBOLIC INTERACTIONISM
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We act towards people and
things on the basis of the
meaning we assign them
Humans have complex brains
and little instinctive behaviour
Individuals interpret for
themselves what they see in
society, internalize it and
attach their own meaning to
things
AUGUSTE COMTE (FUNCTIONALISM)
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Invented term “sociology”
Noted societies tried to
change and adapt over time
Important contribution –
positivism (originated use of
scientific method)
EMILE DURKHEIM (FUNCTIONALISM)
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Considered founder of modern
sociology
Established a lasting
relationship between
sociology and criminal justice
First to argue reforming
criminal
Noted for studies on suicide
TALCOTT PARSONS (FUNCTIONALISM)
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Recognized that people are
free to make choices – but opt
to fit into the group in society
they most identify with
Studied motivations to fit into
society
Held an optimistic view of
society
Too much focus on law and
order in society
KARL MARX (CONFLICT)
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Coined term “class conflict”
Founder of conflict school
of sociology
Struggle for power and
wealth drives society,
creates class conflict
Believed capitalism gave
people no control over their
destiny
MAX WEBER (SYMBOLIC INTERACTIONISM)
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Modified Marx’s approach –
included other factors not just
economy
Favored creation of
government bureaucracies
Popularized idea society could
be reformed and changed
GEORGE HERBERT MEAD (S. INTERACT.)
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Sociologist & Psychologist
Pragmatist (linked theory
with practice)
“Looking Glass Self” – see
themselves through eyes of
those they interact with
People wear a different
‘mask’ depending on
required social role.