SU Theoretical Paradigms the Existing Sociological Paradigms Discussion Theoretical Paradigms A theory is created by linking a series of facts that lead t

SU Theoretical Paradigms the Existing Sociological Paradigms Discussion Theoretical Paradigms

A theory is created by linking a series of facts that lead to a specific meaning. In the study of sociology, theoretical paradigms are used to build theories. A paradigm is a model that sets standards in which something can be understood.

In your readings, you will find that the structural-functional paradigm is used to determine and define how a wide range of social structures work together. Social structures are organized patterns that influence our behaviors. For example, education, family, and the economy are all powerful structures that shape our behavior on a daily basis. Emile Durkheim is considered the founder of this particular paradigm.

Another paradigm that is used in sociology to generate theories is called the social-conflict approach, which assists researchers in focusing on inequalities in society. Race, class, and gender are all important sources of inequality that often generate conflict as well as social change. These paradigms operate on a larger, macro-level. Experts credit Karl Marx as the founder of this approach.

The third approach is to consider the processes through which individuals construct their own reality. This is called the symbolic-interaction paradigm and it focuses the study of sociology on the daily interactions of people within larger society. Unlike structural-functionalism and social-conflict, which both are macro-level paradigms, symbolic interactionism is micro-level because it looks at our behaviors in specific situations. For instance, people may react in different ways to the wink of an eye. George H. Mead (1863–1931) is credited with this paradigm.

Finally, the postmodern perspectives posit that the previous three perspectives have been unsuccessful in explaining social life in modern society. Theories within this paradigm note the increased amount of consumerism and individual freedom with a decreased connection to social institutions. Postmodern theorists note that there is no overarching “truth” and that large generalizations cannot explain individuals’ behavior. Jean Baudrillard (1929–2007) is often credited as one of the key founders of postmodern perspectives.

This discussion is designed to help acquaint you with the field of sociology. After you have read the reading assignment and lecture for the week, please respond to all parts of the discussion by the due date assigned:

Identify the four major sociological theoretical paradigms. For each, what are the key tenets? How does each explain how society works?
Which paradigm do you relate to best? How can you use this particular paradigm to explain your decision to attend college?
Which of the four major research methods would you use, and how, to explore why adult students choose to return to college? What are the benefits and flaws of the particular method you chose for your imaginary study?
Part 2 Based on the concept of culture, components of culure and multicutiralism.
What are the top ten American values as found in the text? Which ones do you embrace and why? Are there any you reject, and if so, why? What three values would you add to the list if you could? Why are the values you would add not already in the top ten?
What are five symbols that represent America? Do they also represent other components of culture, such as material objects or values?
Consider the concept of cultural lag. Identify two American values that are “lagging.” What are three norms that are lagging? How does cultural lagging relate to the Westernization that is happening in other countries?