The differences and similarities between functionism, marxism, and social action theory.

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THE DIFFERENCES & SIMALARITIES BETWEEN FUNCTIONISM, MARXISM AND SOCIAL ACTION THEORY

Sociology is generally made up of three paradigms: Functionalism, Conflict Theory and Symbolic interactionism.

A paradigm is a set of assumptions that shape and underlie explanations of why society is the way it is (Early Stratification Theory, internet 2003).

Functional Theory is often traced from Durkheim, Parsons and Merton.

Functionalists believe in shared norms and values, which are influenced by the Family, Education, church and employment. It sees society as a shaper of people rather than people shaping society. The functionalist says we need social order in which to survive normally.

Roles are also important to the functionalist for example the roles in marriage.

The functionalist believe we as humans look at the roles played around us, for example, our parents and then we copy them. We think the pattern of life that we see is a natural one.

We learn roles from our family thus the son is expected to take the role/job of his father as is the daughter expected to cook and clean akin to her mother. The role of the family is to socialise its