Sociological Theory
Functionalism, Marxism, Feminism and more
Functionalism: Society as a system where every part (family, education, religion) performs a **function** for stability. **Durkheim** studied social facts — external forces shaping behaviour. **Parsons** developed AGIL model. **Consensus theory** — shared values hold society together. Criticism: ignores conflict and inequality.
Marxism: **Karl Marx** saw society divided into **bourgeoisie** (owners) and **proletariat** (workers). The **superstructure** (education, media, religion, law) maintains ruling class power. **Conflict theory** — power, not consensus. Marx predicted proletariat revolution.
Feminism: Society structured around **patriarchy**. **Liberal feminists** seek legal equality. **Radical feminists** want fundamental change. **Marxist feminists** link gender inequality to capitalism.
Interactionism: Focuses on face-to-face interactions. **Weber's Verstehen** — empathetic understanding of meanings. **Goffman's Dramaturgical Model** — social life as theatre with front stage/back stage. **Labelling theory** (Becker) — labels shape identity.
Key Points to Remember
- 1Functionalism: society as a system
- 2Marxism: class conflict and inequality
- 3Feminism: gender inequality
- 4Interactionism: small-scale interactions
Pakistan Example
Karachi's Rickshaw Driver Through Four Theoretical Lenses
A functionalist says he provides essential transport. A Marxist highlights his exploitation — no means of production, paying high fuel costs. A feminist notes patriarchal norms restrict women from this work. An interactionist studies how he negotiates fares and code-switches between Urdu, Sindhi, and English.