Comparing Functionism, Marxism, and Social Action Theory Essay

Sociology is generally made up of three paradigms Functionalism, Conflict possible action and Symbolic interactionism. A paradigm is a set of assumptions that shape and be explanations of why society is the way it is (Early Stratification hypothesis, internet 2003). Functional Theory is often traced from Durkheim, Parsons and Merton. Functionalists believe in sh atomic number 18d norms and values, which are influenced by the Family, Education, church service and employment. It sees society as a shaper of hoi polloi rather than people shaping society. The functionalist says we shoot social order in which to survive normally. Roles are also important to the functionalist for example the roles in marriage. The functionalist believe we as universe look at the roles played around us, for example, our parents and then we copy them. We call the pattern of life that we see is a natural one. We learn roles from our family consequently the son is expe cted to take the role/job of his father as is the daughter expected to cook and clean akin to her mother. The role of the family is to socialize its new members and teaches them the norms and values essential to the social life, working together to force society work as a whole. The churchs role according to the functionalist, plays a major role in holding society together by endowing its agreed values and beliefs with sacredness and, through rituals, eter Worsley 1970 pg 475) Harmony, common consent, unity, unanimity and agreement are common words used by the functionalist. If we all agree to pacification and goodwill, have respect for each other and stick together and abide by the guidelines set down for us by our an... ...me, although I understand we need the basis of structures and economics but we also need to be fit to make up our own minds and direct our own actions. BIBLIOGRAPHY Berger, P. and Kellner, H. (1981) Sociology reinterpreted. U .K. Pelican books. Class An founding (internet) Available from http//www.sociologyonline.co.uk/soc essays/class.htm accessed 29.10.03 Early Stratification Theory (internet) Available from http//www.wise.virginia.edu/p_withen/reviews/ST/STRev/revSTO4earlystratth.html accessed 29.10.03 Weber, M. (1999) (internet) available from http//uregina.ca/gingrich/S30f99.htm accessed on 29.10.03 Worsley, P. (ED) (1970) The New Introducing Sociology Penguin books Middlesex impressing them upon societys members and renewing and reinforcing their attachment to them. (P