Comparing and Contrasting Theories of Culture: Structural-Functionalism Vs. Symbolic Interactionism
Human society is complex, and culture is an integral part of it. Over time, scholars have tried to understand the nature of culture and how it influences human behavior. Two prominent theories have developed over time, Structural-Functionalism and Symbolic Interactionism. In this article, we will explore these two theories and analyze their similarities and differences.
What is Structural-Functionalism?
Structural-Functionalism assumes that society is made up of different interconnected parts, with each part playing a specific role to maintain the functioning of the whole system. According to Structural-Functionalism, culture serves a particular purpose in society, ensuring that individuals can meet their basic needs and survive. Therefore, acknowledging culture’s importance is the key to understanding societal functioning.
What is Symbolic Interactionism?
Symbolic Interactionism, on the other hand, emphasizes the significance of symbols and how they are used in communication. This theory suggests that individuals interact with each other based on the meanings they ascribe to symbols and how they interpret them. Symbolic Interactionism emphasizes the role of culture in shaping individual behavior and interpretation, with cultural symbols and messages influencing how people view themselves and others.
Real-World Examples
Using real-world examples can help illustrate the differences between the two theories better. For instance, let’s consider the practice of gift-giving. Structural-Functionalism argues that gift-giving helps to maintain social cohesion, and cultures often have specific rules governing gift-giving to ensure that it remains a meaningful practice. In contrast, Symbolic Interactionism suggests that gift-giving depends on individual interpretation, with individuals attaching meaning to the gift based on their unique cultural background.
Another example is the practice of marriage. Structural-Functionalism views marriage as a way to ensure stable family units, which play a crucial role in maintaining societal stability. In contrast, Symbolic Interactionism suggests that marriage depends on individual interpretation, with individuals attaching meaning to the institution based on their unique cultural background.
Similarities and Differences
Despite their differences, Structural-Functionalism and Symbolic Interactionism share some similarities. Both theories emphasize the importance of culture in shaping human behavior, with culture playing a crucial role in maintaining societal norms and values. Both theories also recognize that culture does not exist in a vacuum, and it is shaped by broader societal and historical factors.
However, the two theories differ in their fundamental assumptions. Structural-Functionalism assumes that society is a stable and integrated system, with cultural practices serving a specific function to maintain stability. Symbolic Interactionism, on the other hand, emphasizes the interpretive nature of culture and how it influences individual behaviors and attitudes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both Structural-Functionalism and Symbolic Interactionism offer unique perspectives on the role of culture in human behavior and society. Although these two theories differ in their fundamental assumptions, they both offer valuable insights into human society and cultural practices. Understanding cultural practices and their influence on human behavior is essential for professionals working in diverse settings, such as HR and cross-functional teams, as it helps develop better communication and working practices.
