Sociological Perspectives and Theories Essay - 2033 Words

Sociological Perspectives and Theories Sociologists try to explain how society orders itself but there are many different theories for this, which often conflict with one another. Some of these classic theories include Marxism, Functionalism, and Interactionism. There are also more modern or contemporary theories such as Feminism. Each sociological perspective has different beliefs. Marxists are concerned with the distribution of economic power and wealth. They believe that society is in conflict between two classes. Those classes are the Bourgeoisie; who own the means of production, i.e. land and the Proletariat; who sell labour to these owners for wages. The Proletariat are being†¦show more content†¦College help teach people so they can gain desired qualifications which will allow them to go out and work in society. Without people being taught professions society would break down because there would be nobody to do certain jobs. Another classic view is Interactionism. We can liken Interactionism to a play; everyone must play their respective roles in order to create a successful performance – in society everyone must do their jobs in order to create a successful society. This approach is much like the functionalism viewpoint. It argues that action is meaningful to those involved and that they interpret the meaning. They also argue that how others see us affects the way we act and how we see ourselves because our actions are based on self-concept. This is otherwise known as ‘The Looking Glass Self’ a phrase that was coined by Charles Cooley (1864-1929) and his theory backs up the ideas of Interactionism. ‘In a very large and interesting class of cases the social reference takes the form of a somewhat definite imagination of how ones self--that is any idea he appropriates--appears in a particular mind, and the kind of self-feeling one has is determined by the attitude toward this attributed to that other mind. A social self of this sort might be called the reflected or looking glass self: Each to each aShow MoreRelatedSociological Perspectives On Education Theory And Practice Essay1351 Words   |  6 PagesSOCIOLOGICAL THEORIES AND THEIR APPLICABILITY IN EDUCATION THEORY AND PRACTICE Presented by: NDUNG’U M. JOSEPH 2016/ED/33284 To MRS. R. GITONGA APRIL 2016 1.1 Overview The word theory merely refers to a particular kind of explanation. Leedy and Ormrod (2005) point out: â€Å"A theory is an organized body of concepts and principles intended to explain a particular phenomenon†. Thus, theories explain â€Å"How† and â€Å"Why† something operates as it does (Johnson Christensen, 2007). As statedRead MoreSociological Perspectives On Social And Social Theory2521 Words   |  11 Pagesbehave according to these observations (Bussey and Bandura, 1999). There are many theories that attempt to explain why gender stereotypes may hold true or at the very least impact our social interactions within Western culture. Sociological theories maintain that gender is entirely a social construct. Biological theories discuss the evolutionary benefits of sex and its importance as an adaptation. Social cognitive theory focuses on the influence of evolutionary factors in congruence with social andRead MoreSociological Perspectives Of Functionalism, Conflict Theory, And Symbolic Interactionism900 Words   |  4 PagesExplain the three major sociological perspectives of functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism. Identify which perspectives use a macro level or a micro level of analysis. Apply each perspective to socialization. Functionalism – Macro Level – This means that each person has a specific function and that each society works together to achieve what is best. For example, my 2 boys attend a public school. The school is funded by taxes I pay as well as neighbors who do not have any childrenRead MoreSociological Perspectives Of Functionalism, Conflict Theory And Symbolic Interactions882 Words   |  4 Pagesthree main sociological perspectives of functionalism, conflict theory and symbolic interactions. In looking at how religion functions in social structures, social systems, and small group interpersonal interactions a sociologist could formulate a better understanding of religion s role in society and the human experience. The sociologist looks at the individual, and how that individual connects to a specific societal location or setting and specifically at religion a sociological study couldRead MoreWhy Should People Commit Crime And Labeling Theory From A Sociological Perspect ive1743 Words   |  7 Pagesare two theories that are in debate, anomie-strain theory, and labeling theory. In this essay, I am going to compare and contrast the two theories and explain how tattooing has become a stigma in today s society. I am going to discuss three similarity views; first they share ties with social strain in deviance, by the way, society is structured. Second, they both deal with crime among minority group as well as crime rates in the United States. Third, both anomie-strain and labeling theory focus onRead MoreEssay on The Sociological Imagination1389 Words   |  6 PagesMy personal condensed definition of â€Å"the sociological imagination† is that it is the idea one should be aware of the societal structures around themselves, and how those structures can influence a person and vice-versa. In addition, I think that having a â€Å"sociological imagination† also involves a deep appreciation for the importance of society and culture. Consequen tly, for a person that has completed a basic introduction to sociology college course and actually paid attention, I would hope thatRead MoreSimilarities and Differences in Sociological Theories of Crime890 Words   |  4 PagesSimilarities and Differences in Sociological Theories of Crime Walden University Similarities and Differences in Sociological Theories of Crime Sociological theories of crime contain a great deal of useful information in the understanding of criminal behavior. Sociological theories are very useful in the study of criminal behavior because unlike psychological and biological theories they are mostly macro level theories which attempt to explain rates of crime for a group or an area ratherRead MoreSociological Perspective Essay978 Words   |  4 PagesThe purpose of this paper is to construct an essay and define the sociological perspective. To be able to explain how my knowledge of the Sociological Perspective has helped me to understand the social world on both a macro and micro level. This essay will include the definition, discussion and application of specific sociological terms, concepts and theories. The study of sociology brings people to view topics in a unique way than others. The way we see the world, human behavior, as well as itsRead MoreSociology 210 Study Guide1129 Words   |  5 PagesChapter One: The Sociological Perspective I. The Sociological Perspective. A. Sociology is the systematic study of human society. B. The sociological perspective (Berger, 1963) helps us to see general social patterns in the behavior of particular individuals (the general in the particular). C. It also encourages us to realize that society guides our thoughts and deeds — to see the strange in the familiar (Berger, 1963). D. Sociology also encourages us to see personal choice in social contextRead MoreThe Sociological Perspective On Medical Conditions1687 Words   |  7 Pagesbiomedical perspective is used to explain various medical conditions. This can include, but is not limited to using an individual’s body and pathogens to explain poor health. On a different note, the sociological perspective takes on a different approach to explain medical conditions. The sociological perspective focuses on the external influences, rather than then internal influences, such as the social environment, institutions, and relationships to assess and explain illness. The sociological perspective

My Own Definition Of Art - 1124 Words

People have appreciated numerous forms of art over many decades and continue to analyze what art is and how the aesthetics of it affect viewers. Audiences have gathered to â€Å"ooh† and â€Å"ahh† at art galleries, musicals, play and ballet performances, and concerts. In fact people even travel long distances to view world-renowned tourist sites, such as the Sistine Chapel. There are billions of creations and events that are considered art whether that art is valued by a large audience or the artist alone. Either way, art has become a tremendously significant method of entertainment in the world today, even if one does not recognize the entertainment as art. My own definition of art is: â€Å"any form of expression that contains effective aesthetics,†¦show more content†¦The beauty of art varies among individuals, but either way, it is a beautiful thing. Art is meant to portray a multitude of emotions through words or images and those emotions strongly affec t most people. For example, Joseph M. Martin’s song entitled â€Å"The Awakening† features a four-part harmony with lyrics that portray a dream (a nightmare rather) where the world lacks music. Lyrics: I dreamed a dream, a silent dream, of a land not far away Where no bird sang, no steeples rang, and teardrops fell like rain. I dreamed a dream; a silent dream. I dreamed a dream of a land so filled with pride That every song, both weak and strong, withered and died. I dreamed a dream No hallelujah; not one hosanna! No song of love, no lullaby. And no choir sang to change the world. No pipers played, no dancers twirled. I dreamed a dream; a silent dream. Awake, awake! Awake, Awake! Awake my soul and sing, the time for praise has come. The silence of the night has passed, A new day has begun! Let music never die in me; Forever let my spirit sing! Wherever emptiness is found let there be joy and glorious sound. Let music never die in me; forever let my spirit sing! Let all our voices join as one to praise the giver of the sun! Awake, awake! Let music live! (Danann) As a member of the Anderson University Concert Choir, I had the opportunity to sing this song at the SCACDA (South Carolina

Willie Lynch free essay sample

As I researched whether or not the Willie Lynch letter is valid, I have concluded that it is invalid for a few reasons and I found supporting documentation to prove my view. Unfortunately, I don’t think the letter is valid but the ideas and content within the letter are valid and the legacy of slaves, slave trade, and slave mistreatment are real. According to freemaninstitute. com, no evidence of there being such a person named Willie Lynch has ever been discovered. Some other obvious questions which lead me to believe the letter is invalid are, â€Å"why a person would be invited from the West Indies to Virginia just to deliver an 8-paragraph speech? Back then, such a trip would have been too strenuous and expensive for this, especially from an unknown person, especially when letter-writing was still the main form of long-distance communication? Of course, Lynch could have been in Virginia on business just before being spontaneously invited to speak. We will write a custom essay sample on Willie Lynch or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Still, if there had been a William Lynch whose word was so valued that he should deliver such a short speech in person rather than in writing, then certainly his speech would have been reprinted and commented upon in the local newspapers? Furthermore, the writing style and language used in the letter is not of the early 18th century. After reading these initial views of Black History experts, I immediately began doing more research and agreed the letter was invalid. There are many opinions online discrediting this letter and giving good reason why. According to the Black Studies Department at the University of Missouri at St Louis, â€Å"In the first paragraph, he promises that â€Å"Ancient Rome would envy us if my program is implemented,† but the word â€Å"program† did not enter the English language with this connotation until 1837 – at the time of this speech it was used to reference a written notice for theater events. Two paragraphs later he says that he will â€Å"give an outline of action,† for slave-holders; the word â€Å"out-line† had appeared only 50 years earlier and was an artistic term meaning a sketch – it didn’t convey it’s present meaning until 1759. † After reading these points by experts, I researched when these words derived and began being used within the English language and found it was accurate. â€Å"Second, the author was not at all successful at steering clear of very specific anachronisms. Well name only the most glaring word-choice errors: fool-proof, used in the speech, actually dates from only 1902. The noun program is not used in the sense found in this speech until the 1830s. Self-refueling is an utter anachronism, as the term refueling did not arise until the early 20th century. Use of installed when referring to something other than a person did not first occur until the mid-19th century. Moreover, attitude did not refer to anything other than a physical position until the mid-19th century. † These are just a few examples of words being used in this 1712 letter which weren’t around at the time. Finally, as I mentioned earlier, there is no evidence that a William Lynch from a modest plantation in the West Indies ever existed. Although, there is some evidence of a Captain William Lynch of Pittsylvania, Virginia, whom has been identified as the most probable source of the verb lynch, and who was born fifty years after the date given in the Willie Lynch Speech. There are other obvious reasons to believe the letter was written around 20th century. When I first read the letter I thought the vocabulary used was far past the time it was written in 1712. Too many things indicate it was not written at the time of the letter although most feel the content is very real and accurate. I think this is a letter was fabricated with content which was accurate at the time but the author and authenticity of it is invalid. I have researched and provided many red flags within this letter proving it was written at a time well before the vocabulary, content, and ideas lead you to believe another point in history. There is much more content online suggesting this letter is invalid and most centering around the same common denominators.

Racial Injustices Birmingham city cases

According to Luther (1963), injustice cannot be confined to one place and if it happens in a given locality it’s bound to spread to the other parts. All communities are interrelated and if injustices affect one part of the community directly, it affects the entire society indirectly.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Racial Injustices: Birmingham city cases specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More He further asserts that, the whites in Birmingham city disapprove of the demonstrations staged by the Negroids, but it does not solve the underlying causes. Segregate and selective conformity to law leads to anarchy, resentment and violence in the society. This is because the oppressed want to have their birth rights and will continuously push towards this goal. Birmingham city has the most cases of racial injustices and the evils that come with it in the United States. The courts treat the Negroids unjustly, their homes a nd churches are bombed and these cases go unresolved. Negro leaders have continuously sought for negotiations with the whites to no avail. According to Luther (1963), in negotiations which materialized, promises were made by the merchants to remove degrading racial signs, concurrently Negroid leaders and supporters agreed to suspend all demonstrations. The merchants did not keep their part of the deal, this lead to great disappointment to the Negroids and left them with no option rather than direct action which involved peaceful demonstrations and workshops. Direct action seeks to create tension, draw attention to issues which have long been ignored and force negotiations. Luther (1963) asserts that there has not been any gain in civil rights without legal and diplomatic pressure. Privileged groups rarely give up their privileges without being coarsed. Segregation lowers victims self esteem, and instills inner fears and outward resentments and this makes individuals anxious and eage r to deliberately break laws. According to Luther (1963), there are unjust and just laws. A just law comprehends the ethics of the moral law and the natural law. An individual has both legal and moral responsibility to conform to just laws. Just laws encourage human personality and existence. Unjust law is a set of laws which is not in accord with the moral law. St. Aquinas (4) says that unjust laws are manmade, and do not have a basis in the moral law and the law of god. One has a right to refuse to comply with unjust laws. Unjust laws humiliate human personality and existence.Advertising Looking for essay on ethnicity studies? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Segregation destroys the soul and damages personality. The segregator gains a fake sense of supremacy and the victim gains a fake sense of inadequacy. Segregation negatively affects political, economical and cultural sectors in a society and it’s also a sin and un ethical. According to Luther (1963), a just law can be made unjust by its application. For instance, he was arrested for parading without legal authorization. It’s just to demand for permits and peaceful parading but when the process of acquiring the permit is selective, the law becomes unjust. Luther (1963) asserts that a person who defies an unjust law and is willing to accept the consequences of his/her action so as to awaken the community’s conscience over the prevailing injustices, demonstrates a great respect of law. Segregation leads to resentment and hatred which lead to masses resulting to violence. According to Luther (1963), this has been witnessed in various groups made up of Negroids who have been frustrated by racism, have no faith in America and repudiate Christianity because Christian leaders have remained silent over the core issues of segregation which affect the society. The oppressed will attain their freedom at some point. If the oppressed express their grievances in a nonviolent manner, they will be forced to express them through violence. Works Cited Luther, Martin. â€Å"Letter from a Birmingham jail†. African Studies Center. Web. http://www.africa.upenn.edu/Articles_Gen/Letter_Birmingham.html This essay on Racial Injustices: Birmingham city cases was written and submitted by user HarleyDav1ds0nC00per to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.