Sociology can be defined as the science that deals with human relationship. It is the study of how human beings relate with each other, how each individual relationship has been influenced by other people and the patterns which are formed out of their interactive relationships. There are three main theories of sociology; functionalism, conflict theory and symbolic interactionism. These theories are used on a day to day bases in society today wether its in the media, with your peers or even in religion.
Symbolic Interactionism is a social theory that focuses on the analysis of the patterns of communication, interpretation and adjustment between individuals(wiki). Symbolic interactionism is on of the major theoretical out look in sociology. This outlook has a long intellectual history, beginning with the german sociologist and economist Max Weber and the American philosopher George H. Mead both who pin point the meaning of human behavior. In society People interpret one another’s behavior and it is these interpretations that form the social bond. For example, why would young people smoke cigarettes even when all studies have points to the dangers of doing so? Because society and their peers promote that smoking is cool and that they can't get harm from smoking. Another example could be symbols and symbols do change such like long hair in males once symbolized rebellion, but now does not. Functionalism is many people's way to view the world sociologically. There are three main points, which make up a functionalist theory on sociological expression. The first point is that culture is mad up of interacting, interdependent parts. Each of these parts has a function in maintaining the society as a system on the whole. The second point states that shared values and expectations or beliefs among the members of the society help hold the society together. The third point states that these systems have a need for stability and a need to try to keep all the parts working together congruously in a sort of system. Social change in this system is uncommon, and when it does happen, it is a very increasing change. Sociologists develop theories to explain social events, interactions, and patterns. There are many theories studied in sociology but symbolic interactionism and functionalism have been studied the most in society today. These scientist have broke down and empathized these theories that still to this day are related to the world.
Works cited
"C. Wright Mills." Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6Th Edition (2013): 1. Academic Search Complete. Web. 27 Mar. 2013.
"Functionalism, In Anthropology And Sociology." Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6Th Edition (2013): 1. Academic Search Complete. Web. 27 Mar. 2013.
Kendall, Diana Elizabeth., Kathleen Anne. Tiemann, and Diana Elizabeth. Kendall. The Intersections Collection: Pearson Custom Sociology. Soc 101 ed. New York: Pearson Learning Solutions, 2011. Print. Westchester Cc Custom Edition.
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