Sociological Perspectives

Functionalist Perspective = is like a well-oiled machine all of its various parts working together
to produce a common, and good product. The various parts society are made, and structured to
make sure the society maintains order, and stay strong. Functionalists believe that anything
that is bad, or less than beneficial or that contributes to society in a less than positive way. Will
in effect cancel itself out, or actually reveal itself a hidden benefit. The words everything
happens for a reason seem to spring to mind. This type of society is considered well established
with everyone playing a supporting role in the overall stability. This is an example of a Macro
Sociology.

Macrosociology Book Definition = concentrates on large scale phenomena or entire
civilizations top down approach. Focuses on society as a whole, and how broad social forces
shape our lives.

Conflict Perspective = this focuses more on power, and who has the power so to speak. That
being the power is derived from money (obviously) ownership or property, and land.
Connections for instance people you know socially, family, and prestige. Culturally as well that
being your beliefs, education, and knowledge. The way Conflict perspective is basically
structured is the privileged groups keep as much for themselves. There by keeping what they
deem inferior people in inferior positions there by suppressing them. This is not a utopian
society for all there is a definite power struggle amongst all. This is also a Macro Sociology. They
maintain their hold so to speak in less than morally upright ways. Basically looking out for their
own selfish interests.
Microsociology Book Definition = stresses the study of small groups, and the analysis of our
everyday experiences, and interactions. Bottom up approach emphasizes the significance of
perception of how we see others, and how they see us.

Interactionist Perspective = this is a bottom up sort of perspective that being a Micro
Sociology. This perspective looks at our everyday life how we interact with society. On a more
personal level than the other two perspectives. That being what we do in our everyday life has
a grander or bigger picture as most like to say. We interact with people in our household,
coworkers, and college. This provides the structure that the society is based on. So with that
being said this perspective allows for the thought that the society is more sensitive, and
susceptible to change. This also has everyone understanding place or behavior in the societys
structure.