Symbolic Interactionism in Sociology Theory

Sociology Theories

Structural functionalism views society as a system composed of different parts that all work together to produce a stable, functioning social order. Each part of society is functional so long as it contributes to the overall stability the society. An image that would represent this theory is one of a machine with interlocking gears, as it conveys the idea that every part of society (like every gear) has a specific part to play (some bigger than others, some smaller—but all are important), and when each part functions as it should, the entire system operates smoothly. For example, social institutions (families, schools, government bodies) are like gears in the machine. The family unit supports its members, while educators ready them for the real world, and government bodies put out the laws to promote law and order. All of them contribute to the stable functioning of society.

A manifest function is the intended and recognized consequence of a social process. For example, the manifest function of a hospital is to provide healthcare. This function is clear, deliberate and has identifiable objectives that are understood by everyone in society. People who are sick go to the hospital to get well. A latent function is the unintended or unrecognized consequence of a social process. For example, a latent function of religion could be the formation of supportive friendships and networks among adherents. It may not be an explicit goal of churches or religious institutions, but this function is evident in the outcome of the fact that the church supports relationship building and community building. Both concepts fit with the image of interlocking gears, as each gear (social institution) has both manifest and latent functions. The manifest function of the hospital gear is to heal, while the latent function of the church is to support sociality. One gear can even help turn another, but that might not be its main purpose, as both functions are needed for the machine to operate in multiple ways.

While structural functionalism explains how all the parts of society fit together harmoniously, conflict theory offers a contrasting view that takes into consideration the concept of power dynamics and inequality. Conflict theory posits that society is in a state of perpetual conflict due to the inherent competition over limited resources. It is explained by the role of power and the use of force (some type of coercion) in maintaining some degree of social order; it states that the inequalities and power struggles between different social groups are a result of this power dynamic and the tension between disparate parts in the system. The image of Proud Boys and BLM protestors facing off in the streets, both with their signs or symbols of power or resistance represents the different struggles different groups partake in. Conflict theorists would argue that social institutions are structured in such a way as to support those in power, who work through the established system and its structures to prevent lesser dominant groups from obtaining power. The protesters represent the ongoing power struggle, with a clash of ideologies and demand for attention, support, power, resources, and so on.

If the conflicts addressed by conflict theory represent a macro perspective (groups and ideologies), symbolic interactionism shifts the focus to micro-level interactions and the meanings individual people attach to them. Symbolic interactionism is the perspective that looks at how people create their own social realities through their lived experiences and interactions and the use of symbols that mean things to them. The picture of two people shaking hands represents this theory well enough: it is a symbolic act that conveys meaning about respect, agreement, greetings, or friendship and partnership. Symbolic interactionism would analyze this interaction by looking the meanings each person attaches to the handshake. For example, in different cultures, a handshake might signify different ideas: for one person, it might be merely a formal greeting, and for another it might be a sign of trust. Symbolic interactionism suggests that our daily interactions are filled with symbols we use to create and hold onto social norms and relationships.

Now, having discussed the primary sociological theories, we can take a moment to look at cultural concepts, starting with norms and values. Norms are the informal of society; they are nowhere to be found in writing—they are just known because of the common ways everyone acts. Values are the ideas and beliefs that people hold dear as ideals or as guides for how to live.