1. The historical context in which sociological thinking developed
2. The influence of sociological thinking on sociology
3. The differences between functionalist, conflict, symbolic interactionist, and postmodern perspectives/theories
in the 20th and 21st-century historical context in which sociological thinking developed
The influence of sociological thinking on sociology
The historical context in which sociological thinking developed?
It was founded in the philosophies of Aristotle and and Plato. Also can be traced to older periods such as the Age of Enlightenment. The modern study of sociology emerged out of three nineteenth-century revolutions: (1) the
development of modern science, (2) the emergence of democratic forms of government, and (3) the industrial
revolution. Sociology emerged in part as a tool to enable people to understand dramatic changes taking place in
modern societies. Historical analysis can develop a critical approach to the study of the past, present, and future. It can illuminate the varieties of cultural and social diversity that have existed, and show how changes in these
have occurred.
The influence of sociological thinking on sociology?
At the heart of sociology is the sociological perspective, the view that our social backgrounds influence our
attitudes, behavior, and life chances. In this regard, we are individuals and social beings deeply enmeshed in
society. Understanding the relationship between personal and public issues can help influence outcomes. Social
influence comprises how individuals adjust their behavior to meet the demands of a social environment. It takes
many forms and can be seen in conformity, socialization, peer pressure, obedience, leadership, persuasion, sales, and marketing. Some of its benefits are Sociological Perspective Helps us to assess the truth of “common sense”, Helps us to see the opportunities and constraints in our lives, Empowers us to be active participants in our society, and Helps us live in a diverse world.
What are the differences between functionalist, conflict, symbolic interactionist, and postmodern perspectives/theories in the 20th and 21st centuries?
Functionalist theories dwell on the structures and institutions in society. Symbolic interaction theories, on the other hand, are based on human interactions with society, while conflict theory is based on human
interactions and attributes of competition and how they bring about conflict in society. The common ground for all three theories is that this world is shaped by society. All three groups and the groups and individuals in each group define what power is, explain the meanings of things, and determine the functions of a particular institution. The
historical context in which sociological thinking developed?
It was founded on the philosophies of Aristotle and Plato. Also can be traced to older periods such as the Age of Enlightenment. The modern study of sociology emerged out of three nineteenth-century revolutions: (1) the
development of modern science, (2) the emergence of democratic forms of government, and (3) the industrial
revolution. Sociology partly emerged as a tool to enable people to understand the dramatic changes in
modern societies. Historical analysis can develop a critical approach to studying the past, present, and future.
It can illuminate the varieties of cultural and social diversity that have existed and show how changes in these
have occurred.