Question

What are the three classical perspectives in Sociology? What are their basic principles? Who are their founding fathers? How do they each view Social Problems? Using the conflict perspective, identify the major reasons behind the global sex trade.

Answer 1

The three classical perspectives in sociology are functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism. Each perspective offers a unique lens through which sociologists analyze and understand society. Here are their basic principles, founding fathers, and views on social problems:

Functionalism:

Basic Principles: Functionalism views society as a complex system composed of interrelated parts that work together to maintain social order and stability. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of social institutions and their functions in maintaining societal harmony.

Founding Father: Emile Durkheim

View on Social Problems: Functionalists view social problems as dysfunctions or disruptions within society's normal functioning. They believe that social problems arise when certain aspects of society fail to perform their intended functions, leading to imbalance and conflict.

Conflict Theory:

Basic Principles: Conflict theory focuses on social inequality, power struggles, and the competition for limited resources. It argues that society is characterized by inherent conflicts between different social groups, such as the bourgeoisie (ruling class) and the proletariat (working class), who have conflicting interests.

Founding Father: Karl Marx

View on Social Problems: Conflict theorists view social problems as a result of power imbalances and inequalities within society. They see social problems as a reflection of the unequal distribution of resources, opportunities, and social privileges. Social problems arise due to the exploitation and oppression of certain groups by dominant groups.

Symbolic Interactionism:

Basic Principles: Symbolic interactionism emphasizes the role of symbols, meanings, and interactions in shaping social life. It focuses on how individuals and groups construct meaning through communication, shared symbols, and social interactions.

Founding Father: George Herbert Mead

View on Social Problems: Symbolic interactionists view social problems as socially constructed and shaped through ongoing interactions and interpretations. They argue that social problems arise when individuals or groups attribute certain meanings and labels to particular behaviors, conditions, or situations.

Using the conflict perspective, the major reasons behind the global sex trade can be attributed to several factors:

Economic Inequalities: The global sex trade is influenced by economic disparities, where individuals in impoverished regions may resort to engaging in sex work due to limited economic opportunities and financial desperation. Economic exploitation and the search for economic survival contribute to the perpetuation of the sex trade.

Gender Inequalities and Patriarchy: The sex trade is often driven by patriarchal structures and gender inequalities. Women and girls, in particular, are disproportionately affected, with many being coerced or forced into sex work due to social, economic, or political vulnerabilities. Gender-based violence and discrimination further contribute to the global sex trade.

Power Dynamics and Trafficking: The global sex trade involves various forms of trafficking, where individuals are forcibly or deceitfully recruited, transported, and exploited for sexual purposes. This exploitation is facilitated by networks of criminal organizations, corrupt officials, and individuals who hold power and profit from the trade.

Demand and Globalization: The demand for commercial sex acts fuels the global sex trade. Factors such as tourism, migration, and globalization have expanded the market for sexual services, with individuals seeking sexual experiences and exploitation in various parts of the world. Economic globalization and interconnectedness contribute to the growth and spread of the sex trade.

It's important to note that the reasons behind the global sex trade are complex and multifaceted, involving intersecting social, economic, and political factors. The conflict perspective helps highlight the power dynamics, inequalities, and exploitation that contribute to the perpetuation of the sex trade.

Answer 2

Step-by-step explanation:

The three classical perspectives in sociology are:

1. Functionalism:

- Basic principle: Society is a complex system with various interconnected parts that work together to maintain social order and stability. Each part of society serves a specific function.

- Founding father: Emile Durkheim

- View on social problems: Functionalists view social problems as disruptions in the equilibrium of society. They focus on understanding how social institutions contribute to maintaining social order and stability.

2. Conflict Theory:

- Basic principle: Society is characterized by social inequality and conflict over limited resources. Power struggles and competition between different social groups shape social relationships and institutions.

- Founding father: Karl Marx

- View on social problems: Conflict theorists view social problems as a result of inherent inequalities and power imbalances in society. They focus on analyzing how dominant groups maintain their power and exploit subordinate groups.

3. Symbolic Interactionism:

- Basic principle: Society is constructed through the interactions and meanings that individuals attribute to symbols and social interactions. Individuals interpret and respond to symbols based on shared meanings and social norms.

- Founding father: George Herbert Mead

- View on social problems: Symbolic interactionists view social problems as emerging from individual interpretations and interactions. They focus on understanding how individuals construct meaning and engage in social interactions that can lead to the emergence of social problems.

Using the conflict perspective, the major reasons behind the global sex trade can be attributed to several factors:

1. Economic Inequality: Poverty and lack of economic opportunities force individuals, particularly women and children, into the sex trade as a means of survival.

2. Gender Inequality: Patriarchal systems and gender-based discrimination contribute to the exploitation of women and girls in the sex trade. Women are often disproportionately affected by poverty, limited educational opportunities, and gender-based violence, making them more vulnerable to exploitation.

3. Globalization: The interconnectedness of economies and increased mobility facilitate the expansion of the sex trade. Demand for commercial sex from tourists, businessmen, and individuals seeking cheap labor fuels the growth of the industry.

4. Organized Crime and Corruption: Criminal networks and human traffickers take advantage of vulnerable individuals, engaging in trafficking, coercion, and exploitation. Corruption within law enforcement and government institutions can perpetuate the sex trade by facilitating its operations.

5. Demand and Supply: The demand for commercial sex drives the market, leading to the supply of individuals forced or coerced into the sex trade. Factors such as cultural norms, social attitudes, and the objectification of women contribute to the demand for sexual services.

It's important to note that the reasons behind the global sex trade are multifaceted, and various sociological perspectives can provide different insights into the issue. The conflict perspective specifically highlights power imbalances, social inequalities, and exploitation as central factors contributing to the perpetuation of the sex trade.