Classical sociological theory makes all persons equal under the state with everything being state owned. Contemporary theory allows for differences in class/sociopolitical standing while retaining the core values of the classical theory.
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Classical sociological theories focus on the macro-level analysis of society, emphasizing structures and institutions. They include theories like functionalism and conflict theory. Contemporary sociological theories, on the other hand, often incorporate a more micro-level perspective, highlighting individual agency, identities, and everyday interactions. They include theories like symbolic interactionism and postmodernism.
Sociological competence refers to the ability to understand and apply sociological concepts, theories, and methods in analyzing and addressing social issues. It involves having a deep understanding of social structures, processes, and interactions, along with the skills to critically assess data and information from a sociological perspective.
Classical sociology refers to the foundational theories and approaches developed by early sociologists like Marx, Durkheim, and Weber in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Contemporary sociology builds upon these foundations by incorporating new perspectives, methods, and areas of study to address current social issues and changes, such as globalization, technology, and inequality. Contemporary sociology also emphasizes interdisciplinary collaborations and a more diverse range of voices and perspectives.
The three major sociological theories are functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism. Functionalism focuses on how society functions as a whole, conflict theory examines power struggles and inequality, and symbolic interactionism looks at how individuals interact and create meaning in society.
Characteristics of a sociological theory include explaining social phenomena, being systematic and coherent, providing a framework for analyzing society, being testable through research, and having practical applications for understanding and improving society.
Human resources, where they use sociological concepts to understand organizational behavior and manage employee relations. Marketing, where they apply sociological theories to analyze consumer behavior and trends. Education, where they use sociological perspectives to address issues related to student diversity and school culture.