FUNCTIONALISM,MARXISM,& SYMBOLIC INTERACTIONISM - TAGLISH VIDEO LESSON (SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL)

Introduction

This tutorial explores three major sociological perspectives: functionalism, Marxism, and symbolic interactionism. Understanding these theories is essential for analyzing social structures and behaviors, especially for senior high school students studying sociology. This guide will break down each perspective into clear, actionable steps, providing insights and practical applications.

Step 1: Understand Functionalism

Functionalism views society as a system of interconnected parts working together to maintain stability and social order.

• Key Concepts:

  • Society functions like a living organism.
  • Each part (family, education, religion) has a specific role.
  • Emphasizes social stability and consensus.

• Practical Application:

  • Analyze how different institutions contribute to societal stability.
  • Example: Consider how schools educate children, preparing them for future roles in the workforce.

Step 2: Explore Marxism

Marxism focuses on the conflicts between different social classes and the impact of capitalism on society.

• Key Concepts:

  • Society is divided into classes (bourgeoisie and proletariat).
  • Capitalism leads to class struggle and inequality.
  • Change is driven by conflict.

• Practical Application:

  • Examine the effects of economic inequality in your community.
  • Discuss how labor movements have shaped workers' rights.

Step 3: Dive into Symbolic Interactionism

Symbolic interactionism emphasizes the role of symbols and interactions in understanding society.

• Key Concepts:

  • Society is constructed through daily interactions.
  • Meanings are created and changed through communication.
  • Focuses on the subjective experiences of individuals.

• Practical Application:

  • Observe everyday interactions and consider the meanings behind them.
  • Analyze how language and symbols shape social experiences.

Step 4: Compare and Contrast the Theories

Understanding the differences and similarities among these perspectives can enhance your sociological analysis.

• Functionalism vs. Marxism:

  • Functionalism emphasizes stability, while Marxism focuses on conflict.

• Functionalism vs. Symbolic Interactionism:

  • Functionalism looks at large-scale structures, while symbolic interactionism focuses on individual interactions.

• Marxism vs. Symbolic Interactionism:

  • Marxism is concerned with class struggle; symbolic interactionism is more focused on meaning and communication.

Conclusion

In this tutorial, we covered the foundational sociological perspectives of functionalism, Marxism, and symbolic interactionism. By understanding these theories, you can develop a deeper insight into societal structures and interactions. As a next step, consider applying these theories to current social issues or conduct further research on how they manifest in real-world scenarios.