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Symbolic Interactionism, Feminist theory
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An essay on Symbolic Interactionism and the Feminist theory for University of the people
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University of the PeopleSOC 1502-01 Introduction to Sociology
Discussion Forum Unit 6
Based on what you know about symbolic interactionism and feminist theory, what do
you think proponents of those theories see as the role of the school? What are some
ways that a conflict theorist would say that educational institutions perpetuate class
differences?
Symbolic interactionism is a perspective that suggests people develop and build upon in the
process of social interaction. According to research, “It is a social theoretical framework associated
with George Herbert Mead (1863–1931) and Max Weber (1864-1920)” (Nickerson, 2021). On the
other hand, feminist theory is another major perspective in the world of sociology that tends to flip
and shift opinions. The idea is to move the viewpoint from the male and offer an equal experience
to the female, Crossman states "feminist theory has always been about viewing the social world in a
way that illuminates the forces that create and support inequality, oppression, and injustice, and in
doing so, promotes the pursuit of equality and justice” (2020).
Based on this, symbolic interactionism would suggest the role of schools is to assist students
in communication and language. It would argue that a school should help students interact and learn
from one another. However, the feminist theory would argue that schools contribute to gender in-
equalities and they should be doing more to incorporate a more balanced environment between boys
and girls. They would argue boys and girls are often treated differently, from how they are treated
in class to a vulnerability outside of the classroom.
A conflict theorist would argue that the educational system, from top to bottom, encourages
social inequalities related to gender, class, and race (Little et al., 2014). They might suggest a
school oversees students differently based on the wealth of their family, discriminating against
those from a poorer background. These class differences in the classroom would affect the level of
interaction between students, therefore affecting the quality of the relationship between student and
teacher and the quality of the education provided. They would suggest teachers in schools treat stu-
dents differently based on their upbringing. On the other hand, it could be argued that the school
handles these situations and they provide the student with better opportunities in the future.
Word count - 324 words
Reference:
Nickerson, C. (2021, October 12). Symbolic Interactionism Theory & Examples - Simply Psychol-
ogy. Simply Psychology. https://www.simplypsychology.org/symbolic-interaction-theory.html
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