Sociology Theories

• What can I describe regarding a theory?

  I can describe what a theory is.
• What can I explain about perspectives in sociology?

  I can explain the difference between structural and action perspectives.
• What is a theory?

  A theory is something that helps us understand how the world works.
• What is a key characteristic of a theory?

  The key part is that theories are testable.
• How can we determine if a theory is right or wrong?

  We can test it through an experiment.
• What happens when there are many correct ideas?

  If there are lots of ideas that are correct, this creates a theory.
• What is a sociological theory?

  A sociological theory is a type of frame for explaining how society works.
• What does a sociological theory attempt to explain?

  It attempts to explain social behavior through the relationship between individuals, groups, and society.
• How does the type of theory affect the understanding of social phenomena?

  The type of theory you pick will decide how you look at a certain social phenomenon.
• What are the two categories of theories in sociology?

  • Structural theories
  • Action theories
• What do structural theorists believe about behavior and attitudes?

  Structural theorists believe that behavior and attitudes are largely controlled by the society that you're brought up in.
• What do action theorists believe about individuals and society?

  Action theorists believe that we are powerful and can shape the society we live in.
• What does free will mean in the context of behavior?

  Free will means I can decide my own behavior and attitudes.
• What does determinism imply about behavior?

  Determinism implies that our behavior is already predetermined by either internal or external forces.
• What are examples of external forces that could determine behavior?

  External forces could include the media, education system, family, and economy.
• What is the main difference between structural and action theories?

  Structural theories believe our behavior is largely structured by society, while action theories believe people are powerful in shaping their world.
• What is the relationship between individual actions and societal structures according to both theories?

  Both theories suggest that we shape our societies with our actions, but our actions are also shaped by the structures in our society.