Three primary theories of social change are (a) functionalism, (b) conflict, and (c) interpretive (or symbolic interactionism). The following table briefly summarizes the key contributors, concepts, and historical roots of these theories:
| Functionalism | Conflict | Interpretive/Symbolic Interactionism | |
| Key Contributors | Émile Durkheim, Herbert Spencer, Talcott Parsons, Robert Merton | Ralf Dahrendorf, Lewis Coser | Max Weber, George Herbert Mead, Herbert Blumer |
| Key Change Factors | Need for survival; goal is to maintain the equilibrium of the system | Competition over scarce or limited resources; unequal access to resources | Change in definition, interpretation, or meaning prompts change in society |
| Historical Roots | Study of biological systems, evolutionary theory | Marxism, Marxist theory | Pragmatism |
With these theories in mind, select a specific social change issue or movement. (Note: This may be the same social change or social justice topic that you select for your Final Assignment.) In preparation for this Discussion, analyze this social change issue or movement through one of the theories: functionalism, conflict, or interpretive/symbolic interactionism.
Post by Day 3 a brief description of the social change issue or movement you selected. Identify the theory you applied to evaluate this issue or movement. Analyze the relationship of this theory to the social change issue. Then, analyze the strengths and limitations of this theory in evaluating this issue
Required Resources
Readings
- Aksan, N., Kısac, B., Aydın, M., & Demirbuken, S. (2009). Symbolic interaction theory. Procedia Social and Behavioral Science, 1, 902–904.
Symbolic Interaction Theory by Aksana, N.; Kısaca, B.; Aydına, M.; Demirbuken, S., in Procedia Social and Behavioral Sciences, Vol. 1/Issue 1. Copyright 2009 by Elsevier Science & Technology Journals. Reprinted by permission of Elsevier Science & Technology Journals via the Copyright Clearance Center. - McClelland, K. (2000a). Conflict theory. Retrieved from
- McClelland, K. (2000b). Functionalism. Retrieved from
- McClelland, K. (2000c). Symbolic interactionism. Retrieved from
- Document:
