SCI - Sociological Perspectives and Social Inequality Lesson

Sociological Perspectives and Social Inequality Lesson

As with other topics in sociology, sociologists tend to associate with one of the three major theoretical perspectives when studying social inequality. Their take, however, is dependent upon the social category experiencing the social inequality. Yet, each perspective remains true to its inherent qualities. The Structural-Functional Perspective focuses on roles. The Social-Conflict Perspective concentrates on conflict. The Symbolic-Interaction Perspective seeks meaning.

 

Theoretical Approaches on Inequality

 

Theories of Inequalities in Race

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Regardless of which perspective a sociologist uses to study social inequality, most agree that social inequality based on gender, age, race or ethnicity manifests as social stratification. Association with a minority social category has implications on one's occupation, income and wealth, education, politics and expectations of and by social institutions. As such, these implications have the same effect that class has on our health, values and attitudes, politics, family, income opportunities and experiences with the justice system. The more subordinated a social category is within society, the fewer the opportunities to experience the benefits of the society's social institutions. If existing in a constructive environment, though, the social categories experiencing social inequality can and will work for change.   

Income, Wealth and Occupation

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