The main topic of the text is the sociological debate between consensus and conflict perspectives in understanding society. Consensus theory suggests social cohesion through shared norms, while conflict theory argues that social order stems from power imbalances and inequalities, with Marxism and feminism as key examples.
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Societal cohesion is achieved through a general concordance on norms and values
Society as an Intricate System
Functionalism conceptualizes society as an intricate system where each component functions in synergy to sustain the entity as a whole
Universal Acceptance of Social Norms and Values
Functionalists maintain that a universal acceptance of social norms and values is indispensable for the smooth operation of social institutions
A collective understanding of societal expectations promotes social cohesion and reduces the likelihood of conflict
Conflict theory underscores the systemic power imbalances and social inequalities embedded within society
Class Struggle in Capitalist System
Marxism critically examines the capitalist system for engendering a class struggle between the bourgeoisie and the proletariat
Exploitation and False Consciousness
Marxists argue that the bourgeoisie exploit the proletariat and perpetuate a social order that safeguards their privileges through ideologies that promote a false consciousness among the working class
Patriarchal Society
Feminism asserts that society is structured in a patriarchal fashion, with men occupying superior positions over women in various social domains
Gender Inequality
Feminist theory aims to reveal and dismantle societal frameworks that uphold gender inequality, such as the gender wage gap and systemic discrimination against women in the workplace and other spheres
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Sociologists use these viewpoints to examine how society functions, understand how ______ is preserved, and highlight ______.
social order
social inequalities
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Role of norms/values in consensus theory
Norms/values act as implicit guidelines steering behavior, ensuring societal cohesion.
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Consensus theory's view on societal members
Members naturally seek alignment with common objectives/shared beliefs for cooperation.
