The Key Sociological Perspectives

Functionalism: This perspective perceives society as a system where all parts work together to create a harmonious whole. It identifies the different parts of society, such as family and education, and how they contribute to the overall wellbeing of society.
Marxism: Originating from Karl Marx, this perspective focuses on the power dynamics and conflicts between different classes in society. It suggests that society is divided into the bourgeoisie (ruling class who owns the means of production) and the proletariat (working class who sell their labour).
Feminism: This perspective analyses society considering the experiences of women. It scrutinises patriarchal societal structures (i.e., male-dominated society) and addresses issues like gender-based discrimination and women’s rights. It also looks at the intersectionality of experiences based on race, class, and gender.
Interactionism: Also known as symbolic interactionism, this perspective is concerned with the meanings individuals attach to their actions within social interactions. It focuses on the micro - the small scale features of society, such as individual and small group interactions.
Postmodernism: This perspective questions the grand theories and ideologies associated with traditional sociology. It argues that society is ever-changing and fraught with contradictions, and as such, no single theory can explain all aspects of human behaviour or social organisation.
New Right: This perspective endorses market-driven approaches and reduced state intervention in public services. In the context of health and social care, the New Right criticises the state provision of welfare and promotes individual responsibility and private sector involvement.

Remember: Each perspective offers a unique approach to analysing social issues, and often, they complement, contradict, or offer alternative viewpoints to each other. It is essential to understand their different approaches to explaining social phenomena, societal changes, and individual behaviours. In health and social care, these perspectives can provide a multifaceted understanding of health inequalities, care provisions, and the impact of social factors on individual health and wellbeing.