Identify and explain the various sociological theories.
Demonstrate their application of the each of the theories in explaining social problems.
Describe the different domain assumptions of each of the theories.
Explain the working concepts specific to each of the theories.
Utilize empirical evidence in claims-making.
Identify a human induced condition. (Examples: environmental pollution, violence etc).
Do the following:
Explain three characteristics that qualify the named human condition as a Social Problem with supporting evidence.
Describe the named social problem via the lenses of two sociological theories.
Utilize three related working concepts and definitions in your analysis for each theory.
Full Answer Section
Conflict theory
- Theory: Conflict theory views society as a system of social inequality, in which different groups compete for power and resources. Social problems are seen as the result of this conflict, and they tend to benefit the powerful at the expense of the powerless.
- Application: Conflict theorists might explain the social problem of poverty by arguing that it is the result of the capitalist system, which concentrates wealth in the hands of a small number of people. They might also argue that poverty is used to justify repressive policies that benefit the powerful, such as mass incarceration.
- Domain assumptions: Conflict theorists assume that society is a system of social inequality, and that social problems are the result of conflict between different groups. They also assume that social institutions are designed to benefit the powerful at the expense of the powerless.
- Working concepts: Social class, social inequality, social conflict, social power
Symbolic interactionism
- Theory: Symbolic interactionism focuses on the way that people interact with each other and with their environment through symbols and language. Social problems are seen as the result of these interactions, and they can be maintained or changed by changing the way that people think and talk about them.
- Application: Symbolic interactionists might explain the social problem of homelessness by arguing that it is the result of negative stereotypes about homeless people. They might also argue that these stereotypes can be used to justify discriminatory policies that make it difficult for homeless people to get help.
- Domain assumptions: Symbolic interactionists assume that reality is socially constructed, and that social problems are the result of the way that people interact with each other and with their environment.
- Working concepts: Symbols, language, social construction of reality, meaning-making, interaction
Human-induced condition: Environmental pollution
Three characteristics that qualify environmental pollution as a social problem:
- It is a widespread problem that affects many people, both directly and indirectly.
- It is caused by human activity, such as burning fossil fuels and releasing industrial waste into the environment.
- It has negative consequences for people's health and well-being, as well as for the environment itself.
Analysis of environmental pollution through the lenses of two sociological theories:
Functionalist perspective: Functionalists might argue that environmental pollution serves the function of providing jobs in the pollution control industry. They might also argue that it motivates people to conserve resources and reduce their own impact on the environment.
Conflict theory perspective: Conflict theorists might argue that environmental pollution is the result of the capitalist system, which prioritizes profits over environmental protection. They might also argue that pollution benefits the powerful, such as corporations and wealthy individuals, at the expense of the powerless, such as low-income communities and communities of color.
Three related working concepts and definitions for each theory:
Functionalist perspective:
- Social function: The purpose or role that a social phenomenon serves in society.
- Social institution: A set of social norms and practices that are organized to meet a specific social need.
- Social equilibrium: A state of balance and stability in society.
Conflict theory perspective:
- Social class: A group of people who share a similar social status and economic position.
- Social inequality: The unequal distribution of resources and power in society.
- Social conflict: The struggle between different groups for power and resources.
Conclusion
Environmental pollution is a serious social problem that affects many people around the world. It is caused by human activity and has negative consequences for people's health and well-being, as well as for the environment itself. Both functionalist and conflict theory perspectives can be used to explain the causes and consequences of environmental pollution.