Functionalism Society works in a

logical manner and protects the interests of its members

Society is best studied as an organic system like the human body

Karl Marx – economics and power differences

Study the social patterns and structures that develop as classes compete for scarce resources

Power/Conflict Revolution not Evolution Max Weber – many factors;

favoured bureaucracies

We act towards people and things on the basis of the meaning we assign them

Humans have complex brains and little instinctive behaviour

Individuals interpret for themselves what they see in society, internalize it and attach their own meaning to things

Invented term “sociology” Noted societies tried to

change and adapt over time Important contribution –

positivism (originated use of scientific method)

Considered founder of modern sociology

Established a lasting relationship between sociology and criminal justice

First to argue reforming criminal

Noted for studies on suicide

Recognized that people are free to make choices – but opt to fit into the group in society they most identify with

Studied motivations to fit into society

Held an optimistic view of society Too much focus on law and order

in society

Coined term “class conflict” Founder of conflict school

of sociology Struggle for power and

wealth drives society, creates class conflict

Believed capitalism gave people no control over their destiny

Modified Marx’s approach – included other factors not just economy

Favored creation of government bureaucracies

Popularized idea society could be reformed and changed

Sociologist & Psychologist Pragmatist (linked theory

with practice) “Looking Glass Self” – see

themselves through eyes of those they interact with

People wear a different ‘mask’ depending on required social role.