Notes:
Structural Functionalism
Culture is society’s socially learned and shared ideas, behaviors, and material components. These ideas, behaviors, and material items become functions of society and part of what makes the world turn. Ideas of culture can include languages or religion — if language no longer existed, society would fall to dysfunction. Dysfunction is defined as undesirable disruptions of social patterns and negative consequences within society. Society would no longer function properly if ideas like languages, behaviors like religion, and materials like art didn’t exist.
During World War II, Nazi Germany stole cultural artifacts from Jews and other minorities. Some pieces were recovered in places such as salt mines, but the majority of these artworks were sold to fund the Nazi war effort.
Conflict Theory
Conflict theory asserts that the dominant culture controls the values and norms society deems important. The dominant culture of America might be confusing because the country is seen as a melting pot. American culture equally promotes conservative and liberal ideals, scientific and religious beliefs, and other contradicting ideals. Conflict between cultural ideals is seen in differing political views and beliefs surrounding abortion. The political and legal institutions will protect these ideals before protecting the minority culture.
Symbolic Interactionism
Symbolic interaction sees culture, values, and norms as social constructions that people interpret. These cultural aspects can vary over time, place, and context. The importance of education is influenced by cultural norms. If everyone values a bachelor’s degree, more of the generation will go to college and achieve that educational goal. The same values and norms that guide what society views as important spread cultures to different parts of the world.