Sociologists use theoretical perspectives to see how the world works. There are three major theoretical perspectives that are used regularly. The perspectives can be divided into the macro as well as the micro level of social analysis. The macro approach focuses on big scale phenomena whereas the micro approach concentrates on the study of smaller groups.
Functionalism
Functionalism acknowledges the fact that every part of society contributes to its existence as well as its stability. It is a macro-level approach. Besides, every societal institution can serve many functions. There are three functions that serve this concept:
Manifest Function
A manifest function of an institution is its obvious and conscious function. For instance, a law enforcement agency such as the police department can be seen as a vital institution that keeps stability and preserves justice in society.
Latent Function
A latent function of an institution is the hidden purposes of an institution. Following the above-mentioned example, the latent function of the police department is to help to curb unemployment as it recruits unemployed into their workforce.
Dysfunction
Meanwhile, a dysfunction is the part or process that disrupt the stability of the social system.
Conflict Perspective
Opposite to functionalism, conflict theory see the world in a continual brawl. Conflict perspective suggests that tension and competition occur every day in our society. It views social institutions such as family, government, business institution as well as education may help to maintain their power and position by constantly exerting power over their subservient. It is a macro-level social analysis approach.
Feminist theory
One of the theories that were developed based on the conflict perspective is feminist theory. Feminist theory focuses on the topic of inequality in gender. It fights for women rights.
Interactionist Perspective
As a micro-level approach, interactionist perspective analyses society base on social interaction among human beings. Furthermore, it emphasizes how day-to-day social behavior is determined by the different values, norms, and symbols in society. For example, why do you think in most societies, wearing a wedding ring carries the meaning that he or she is married? Why a salute signifies respect? Or even why some dress codes are considered appropriate and some are regarded as the opposite? Hence, interactionist perspective focuses on these interactions to study how society works.
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