Final answer:
Sociological theories such as structural functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism are used to interpret and understand social life, institutions, and interactions. These theories offer distinct perspectives on issues, such as the trend of veterans returning to college, each providing unique insights into social dynamics.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sociological theories are frameworks for understanding how different aspects of society are related and how they operate. These theories help to explain social institutions, behaviors, and interactions. Among them, three main theoretical perspectives dominate sociological thinking: structural functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism.
Structural functionalism is a macro-level theoretical perspective that sees society as a complex system with various parts working together to promote stability and solidarity. Conflict theory, on the other hand, focuses on the power differentials and struggles between various social groups, emphasizing the role of social inequality and institutionalized differences. Meanwhile, symbolic interactionism is a micro-level theory that looks at the everyday interactions between individuals and how they use symbols to create social life.
Applying these perspectives to current social trends, such as the noted trend of veterans returning to college, can lead to different interpretations and solutions. For instance, using conflict theory, one might examine the systemic barriers that exist for veterans in the job market that push them towards further education, whereas structural functionalism might look at how veterans’ education contributes to social stability and order, and symbolic interactionism could explore how individual veterans interpret and navigate their identities in a college setting after military service.
The choice of which theoretical perspective to apply can depend on the aspect of the social issue one wants to illuminate or how it aligns with the sociologist's own worldview.