Final answer:
Erving Goffman popularized the dramaturgical theory in sociology, which uses theater as an analogy for social interaction.
Step-by-step explanation:
The dramaturgical theory in sociology, which compares everyday life to theater and stage, was made popular by Erving Goffman. Goffman's concept, known as dramaturgical analysis, argues that people perform in social contexts, constantly changing roles and improvising as the situation demands, much like actors in a play. This theatre analogy helps to understand social interaction and the varying 'scripts' individuals adhere to in different social settings. Goffman emphasized the importance of symbols in social interaction and the cultural scripts that we follow in our 'performances' in daily life.