Everyday theorizing and sociological theory

What is sociological theory?

Sociological theory is a set of concepts and explanations that sociologists use to understand social life. It is a systematic way of thinking about the social world that helps us to make sense of the complex interactions and relationships that take place between individuals, groups, and institutions.

Sociological theory is different from everyday theorizing in several ways. First, sociological theory is more systematic and rigorous. It is based on a careful analysis of empirical data, and it is supported by a body of research. Everyday theorizing, on the other hand, is often informal and unsystematic.

Second, sociological theory is more abstract. It deals with general principles that apply to all societies, not just our own. Everyday theorizing, on the other hand, is often more specific and focused on particular events or situations.

Third, sociological theory is more critical. It challenges our assumptions about the social world and asks us to think about it in new ways. Everyday theorizing, on the other hand, is often more accepting of the status quo.

What is a sociological paradigm?

A sociological paradigm is a broad framework for understanding the social world. It is a set of assumptions, concepts, and methods that guide sociological research. Some of the most well-known sociological paradigms include structural functionalism, symbolic interactionism, and conflict theory.

Each paradigm has its own strengths and weaknesses. Structural functionalism, for example, is good at explaining how societies work together to maintain order. However, it can be less helpful in explaining social change. Symbolic interactionism, on the other hand, is good at explaining how individuals make sense of their social world. However, it can be less helpful in explaining large-scale social forces.

The legacy of theorizing

The legacy of theorizing is that it has helped us to understand the social world in a more systematic and rigorous way. Sociological theories have helped us to identify the key factors that influence social behavior, and they have provided us with insights into the complex dynamics of social change.

For example, the theory of social stratification, which was developed by Max Weber, has helped us to understand how inequality is created and maintained in societies. The theory of deviance, which was developed by Émile Durkheim, has helped us to understand why some behaviors are considered deviant and others are not.

The influence of classic sociological theory on contemporary theory

The classic sociological theories have had a significant influence on contemporary theory. Many of the concepts and ideas that were first developed by the classical theorists are still used by sociologists today. For example, the concept of social structure, which was developed by Émile Durkheim, is still widely used to understand the way that societies are organized.

However, contemporary theory has also been influenced by other disciplines, such as psychology, anthropology, and economics. As a result, contemporary theory is more diverse and interdisciplinary than the classic theories.

Conclusion

Sociological theory is a valuable tool for understanding the social world. It helps us to make sense of the complex interactions and relationships that take place between individuals, groups, and institutions. It also helps us to identify the key factors that influence social behavior and social change.

The legacy of theorizing is that it has helped us to understand the social world in a more systematic and rigorous way. The classic sociological theories have had a significant influence on contemporary theory, and they continue to be used by sociologists today.