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Sociological Theories
This chapter covers the major theoretical lenses in sociology and the classical thinkers behind them. You will learn to read a scenario, name the perspective that explains it, and attribute each concept to the right theorist.
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What this chapter covers
- Functionalism & Conflict Theory. Two macro-level lenses give opposite readings of the same institution. The MCAT asks you to tell them apart from one sentence of description.
- Symbolic Interactionism, Social Constructionism & Goffman. Micro-level theories ask how shared meanings are made in daily life. Expect scenarios naming a behavior that you must label with the right concept.
- Rational Choice, Exchange Theory & Feminist Theory. These perspectives explain behavior through costs and rewards or through gender power. Match each one to the vocabulary in a scenario.
- Durkheim, Merton & the Strain Typology. Durkheim's solidarity and suicide types, plus Merton's five adaptations, are recurring exam favorites that reward exact definitions.
- Marx & Weber. Marx and Weber both explain inequality, but with different concepts. Know which vocabulary belongs to which thinker.
Key points to know
- Functionalism and conflict theory are macro-level; interactionism is micro-level
- Manifest = intended function; latent = unintended benefit
- Symbolic interactionism: meaning arises from interaction (Blumer, Mead)
- Thomas theorem and Merton's self-fulfilling prophecy: beliefs shape reality
- Rational choice: individuals maximize benefits, minimize costs
- Exchange theory (Homans, Blau): relationships as trades of rewards; reciprocity
- Durkheim: social facts, collective conscience, anomie
- Mechanical solidarity = similarity; organic solidarity = interdependence
Try a practice question
Which of the following is a macro-level theory?
- Symbolic interactionism
- Social exchange theory
- Functionalism
- Dramaturgical analysis
Show the answer
C. Functionalism explains society-wide structure. Symbolic interactionism, exchange theory, and Goffman's dramaturgy all focus on interaction between individuals, so they are micro-level.
Common questions
What does this chapter cover?
Sociological Theories covers Functionalism & Conflict Theory, Symbolic Interactionism, Social Constructionism & Goffman, Rational Choice, Exchange Theory & Feminist Theory, Durkheim, Merton & the Strain Typology, Marx & Weber.
What should I know first?
Functionalism and conflict theory are macro-level; interactionism is micro-level Manifest = intended function; latent = unintended benefit Symbolic interactionism: meaning arises from interaction (Blumer, Mead)
24 original practice questions accompany this chapter in the app. Spaced review brings missed ideas back at the right time; it helps memory but cannot promise you will not miss an idea again.