Section Overview
This section explores the essential role of theory in sociology, providing a foundational framework for analyzing and understanding various aspects of society, including behavior patterns, social relationships, and institutions. It highlights the work of Émile Durkheim, particularly his use of social integration theory to examine differences in suicide rates among religious groups.
The section introduces the three major theoretical approaches in sociology—structural functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism—each offering a distinct lens through which to understand how society operates. It also addresses the continued development of sociological theory over time, including newer perspectives that focus on examining power structures, social roles, and group dynamics.
Finally, the section touches on more recent theoretical trends, such as postmodern theory, which questions universal claims to truth and emphasizes how language and interpretation influence our understanding of the world. This section emphasizes the evolving nature of sociological theory as it responds to shifts in society and academic thought.
Reading Assignment for Section 1.4
Read the following subsection from our online textbook: Section 1.4: Theory in Sociology.
What You Will Learn
In this section, you’ll explore the foundational role of social theory in sociology and its importance in explaining social behavior and societal structures. You’ll learn about the three main sociological paradigms: structural functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism. Additionally, you’ll examine how theories help identify patterns in behavior and social institutions, and how modern sociological thought has expanded to include newer perspectives that explore power dynamics, social roles, and group relationships.
Student Learning Outcomes for Section 1.4
- SLO 1: Students will understand the role of theory in sociology and its importance in explaining social behavior and societal patterns.
- SLO 2: Students will identify and explain the three major sociological paradigms: structural functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism.
- SLO 3: Students will examine how sociological theories are used to identify patterns in behavior, social relationships, and institutions, including how Émile Durkheim applied theory to understand differences in suicide rates.
- SLO 4: Students will recognize how modern sociological theories have built upon earlier foundations and explore newer approaches that focus on power dynamics, social structures, and group interactions.
- SLO 5: Students will understand that sociological theories continue to adapt in response to societal changes, offering multiple perspectives on how people relate to and influence one another within society.
Modification History File Created: 05/07/2023 Last Modified: 05/20/2025
[Contents]
This work is licensed under an Open Educational Resource-Quality Master Source (OER-QMS) License.
