Conducting sociological research while attempting to establish the nature of the parameter being measured or to make explicit the hidden causal relationships found in society requires complicated analysis. In testing, countless variables can confuse research (“Theoretical perspectives,” 2020). Therefore, many sociologists become committed to one of three perspectives that view sociology’s essence through different paradigms.
When I take sociological measurements, I am most likely to be guided by the conflictive approach, which is to view society as infinitely feuding classes. The cause of such enmity, according to Marx, is the unequal distribution of resources, which can be seen in absolutely every sphere of our lives. Better medicine, high-quality education, and permanent vacations abroad are possible only for the rich part of society, while people with below-average incomes have to survive. This works even in countries’ context: some states have a considerable GDP, but others cannot afford decent wages and social guarantees. Conflict is the natural nature of life, so deliberately ignoring it as a fact in sociological research seems like a bad idea. Examples of specific topics in which the foundation is the measurement of conflict are studies of the law’s significance, studies of social tensions, and measures of public attitudes toward government or the police.
However, avoiding other sociological perspectives is not a sound idea either, since each of the paradigms can offer advantages. For example, functionalism explains social systems’ functional nature, while symbolism allows us to assess individuals’ perceptions of iconic symbols. Together, the three approaches can provide a more complete picture of the sociological problem. For example, an in-depth examination of the institution of religion can be conducted from three angles. In the first case, conflict can explain the nature of its creation and the extent of its involvement in the state. Functionalism makes it possible to clarify the roles the church performs for society. Finally, through interactionism, the researcher can determine the meaning of religious symbolism and the extent to which it is perceived in society.
Reference
Theoretical perspectives in sociology. (2020). Social Science. Web.