Answer to Question #313109 in Sociology for Alpha

Question

In 300 words or more, compare and contrast two theoretical approaches to social problems by using poverty as a social problem.

Answer 1

Most theories of poverty, according to this article, maybe useful if classified into two major families: functionalism theory and social constructivism. The population and capital market environment, which influences poverty, are highlighted in functionalism theory. Power and institutions, according to conflict theory, generate policy, which in turn can lead to poverty and dampens the link between conduct and poverty

According to the functionalist theory, it argues that general societal frameworks occur since they contribute important components towards resilience and perpetuation of society. Functionalists of the society think that strata occur as it performs vital societal purposes. It consists of several logical arguments implying that classification is both required and unavoidable Once applied to societal structure, the assumptions include the following:

a) Some occupations are much more important than others. The job of a brain surgeon, for example, is more significant than that of a shoe shiner.

b) Some jobs necessitate a higher level of ability and knowledge than others. To continue with our example, performing brain surgery needs more expertise and understanding than shining shoes.

On the other hand, the critique of the poverty approach is included in the elaboration of strata in conflict theory, which is based on a category society perspective. There are several conflict hypotheses, and they mostly suggest that poverty is an outcome of a crucial conflict witnessed between desires and expectations of current societal mighty, or "haves," and the desires and interests of society's weak, or "have-nots." The elite exploit their social position to retain their power, even though it takes harassing the few from the bottom. They might even manipulate the laws, the press, and other authorities to keep society's hierarchical system. Interactionism, in general, links social stratification and, as a result, poverty to limited possibilities as a result of prejudice and discrimination towards minorities.