Main Theoretical Traditions in Sociology

. . ° TABLE 1.1 Theoretical Main Level Main Image of Tradition of Analysis Focus Main Question Ideal Society The Main Theoretical Traditions in Sociology Functionalism Macro Values How do the institutions A state of of society contribute equilibrium to social stability? Conflict Macro and Class How do privileged The elimi— theory global inequality groups seek to maintain nation of their advantages and privilege, subordinate groups especially seek to increase theirs, class privilege often causing social change in the process? Symbolic Micro Meaning How do individuals Respect for interactionism communicate so as to the validity of make their social set— minority views tings meaningful? Feminist Micro and Patriarchy Which social structures The elimina— theory macro and interaction pro— tion of gender cesses maintain male inequality dominance and female subordination?