Final answer:
The basic theoretical perspectives in sociology are structural functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism. These perspectives offer different ways of understanding society and social issues. By applying these perspectives to specific social issues, sociologists gain insights into the causes and dynamics of those issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
Theoretical Perspectives in Sociology
Modern-day sociologists often apply three major theoretical perspectives in their studies: structural functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism. Each perspective offers a unique lens through which to view and understand society.
1. Structural Functionalism:
Structural functionalism views society as a complex system made up of interrelated parts that work together to maintain stability and order. It emphasizes the functions and roles that different social institutions serve in society. For example, in the case of unemployment, a functionalist perspective would focus on how unemployment can disrupt the functioning of the economy and the role of social welfare programs in mitigating its effects.
2. Conflict Theory:
Conflict theory highlights the role of power and inequality in shaping social relationships and institutions. It views society as a struggle between different groups competing for limited resources and social privileges. For instance, when examining poverty, conflict theorists would analyze how economic disparities and unequal distribution of resources contribute to the existence and persistence of poverty.
3. Symbolic Interactionism:
Symbolic interactionism explores society through the lens of individual interactions, meanings, and symbols. It focuses on how people create and interpret symbols, such as language and gestures, to generate shared meanings and social interactions. When applying symbolic interactionism to education, scholars would study how students and teachers interact in a classroom setting and how these interactions shape educational experiences.
These perspectives provide sociologists with different ways to understand and analyze social issues. By applying them to specific social issues, researchers can gain insights into the underlying causes and dynamics of these issues, leading to a deeper understanding of society as a whole.