Functionalist Sociology Discussion Questions

From SandeepPurao

Discussion

1. Comte believed that all sciences passed through three phases of development: theological, metaphysical and positive. What does this statement mean?
2. Do you agree with this statement? Do you believe this statement?
3. Early work on this paradigm seems to have been done during early / late nineteenth century. Do you think the perspective has evolved since? If so, how would you guess the evolution has been?
4. The first key theoretical position in this paradigm is "structural functionalism." This has been and continues to be dominant in social sciences. What does this theoretical position subscribe to? (hint: start with Radcliffe-Brown)
5. The second key theoretical position in this paradigm is "systems theory" starting from von Bertalanffy. How is this position different from the 'structural functionalism' position?
6. Both structural functionalism and systems theory fall into the group that Burrell and Morgan call "Social System theory." The next group they identify is Interactionism. Simmel and Mead's ideas are key to understanding this position. Can you describe these ideas with the help of examples?
7. A third group of theories identified by Burrell and Morgan is 'integrative theory' - this is a hodgepodge of theoretial positions that all have one key common orientation - they try to incorporate conflict and change (evolution?) in their explanations. We will look at one - Buckley's morphogenic system theory - we would like to see if we can critique this theorizing. Of course, the first step towards this would be clearly understanding what he is saying - in our own words please.
8. After briefly visiting Skinner's brand of behaviorism, Burrell and Morgan wrap up this chapter and describe the key elements that underlie this paradigm. Do you - personally - agree with these? Consider each in turn and discuss.