TSV
Major Sociological Theories - TSV
The major sociological theories include three main paradigms: functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism. Functionalism views society as a stable, integrated system; conflict theory focuses on power and inequality; and symbolic interactionism emphasizes everyday interactions and the construction of meaning among individuals. These theories complement each other, providing multiple perspectives for analyzing social phenomena.
sociology
social theory
functionalism
conflict theory
symbolic interactionism
Durkheim
Marx
Mead
code slug name description analysisLevel coreConcepts keyTheorists
01 functionalism Functionalism A theory that views society as a stable system of interrelated parts, similar to a living organism. Macro (large-scale structures) ["manifest functions","latent functions","dysfunctions","organic solidarity","mechanical solidarity","anomie"] ["Emile Durkheim","Talcott Parsons","Robert K. Merton"]
02 conflict-theory Conflict Theory A theory that views society as characterized by inequality and domination based on class, gender, race, and other factors. Macro (large-scale structures) ["class struggle","bourgeoisie","proletariat","exploitation","alienation","cultural hegemony","false consciousness"] ["Karl Marx","Friedrich Engels","Max Weber","Ralf Dahrendorf"]
03 symbolic-interactionism Symbolic Interactionism A micro-level theory focusing on everyday interactions and the construction of meaning among individuals. Micro (individual interactions) ["self","looking-glass self","role","shared meaning","dramaturgy","impression management","labeling theory"] ["George Herbert Mead","Herbert Blumer","Charles Cooley","Erving Goffman"]