Is the symbolic interaction theory a materialist or idealist theory?

Solutions

Expert Solution

In order to understand whether the symbolic interaction theory is a materialist theory or an idealist theory we first need to find out the meaning of these two first.

Materialist theory or materialism - as the name suggests this theory asserts that material is the central ingredient in nature and everything including psychological facets and awareness are consequences of material interactions Materialism does not identify anything beyond the physical world.

Idealist theory or idealism - this theory proclaims that reality as thought by people is chiefly psychologically created or immaterial. It is opposite of materialism and emphasizes that the importance of awareness as the source and requirement of material phenomena. this theory declares that the physical world is creation of soul, awareness and concepts. Man thought of something first and with the help of imagination or thought, this material world evolved.

Symbolic interaction theory states that evidences are built upon and controlled by symbols. The basis of this concept is meanings. Symbolic interaction theory scrutinizes the meanings evolving from the reciprocal interaction of people in societal atmosphere with other persons. George Herbert Mead believed that mind and ego are results of society. Mead accepts that symbols helps in progressing mind and they are used a way for thoughts and communication.

In the opinion of Blumer, there are three main ideologies in symbolic interaction Meaning, language and thinking principle. Symbolic interaction theory recognizes the value of meaning as the fundamental thing of human conduct. Human being provides logic to symbols and they express these things by a way of language. Thus, symbols are the foundation of communication. The third principle in the symbolic interaction viewpoint thinking changes the understanding of individuals related to symbols.

Thus, from the above concept we can say that symbolic interaction theory is an idealist theory.

Hayet Jeridi answered 7 months ago

Next > < Previous

Related Solutions

Question 1 Symbolic interaction theory emphasizes interpersonal forms of interaction. True False Question 2 Functionalist theory...

Question 1 Symbolic interaction theory emphasizes interpersonal forms of interaction. True False Question 2 Functionalist theory focuses on the influence of individuals on the larger society. True False Question 3 The most common response of illness by people throughout the world is: Health behavior. Illness behavior. Self-care. Doctor visits. None of the above. Question 4 Visits to physicians are higher for: Males. Females. Adults. No difference in response options. None of the above. Question 5 Consumerism is more likely a...

Is the postmodernism theory a materialist or idealist theory?

Why is Marxism considered a materialist theory?

Who are the major contributors (theorists) to each theory? Contrast functional theory, conflict theory, and symbolic...

Who are the major contributors (theorists) to each theory? Contrast functional theory, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism. Which theory is a macro level theory and which is a micro level theory?

Apply each of the three theoretical perspectives (Functionalist, Conflict, and Symbolic Interaction) to the following question:...

Apply each of the three theoretical perspectives (Functionalist, Conflict, and Symbolic Interaction) to the following question: Why do people accumulate debt for winter holiday gifts, when they cannot afford it? Make sure you respond to each of the three perspectives.

Use one of the three sociological perspective (functional,conflict,or symbolic interaction) to explain Prejudice: Why are some...

Use one of the three sociological perspective (functional,conflict,or symbolic interaction) to explain Prejudice: Why are some poeple prejudiced against others?

Is Marxism considered to be materialist or idealist? Why?

Q. Describe Karl Marx's dialactical materialist approach to understanding class relation. Also, how his theory described...

Q. Describe Karl Marx's dialactical materialist approach to understanding class relation. Also, how his theory described the inequality and poverty? (250 Words)

Define Functionalism, Conflict Theory and Symbolic Interactionism. Identify the sociologists most closely related to each. (for...

Define Functionalism, Conflict Theory and Symbolic Interactionism. Identify the sociologists most closely related to each. (for example: Conflict Theory = Marx) Describe why you are going to college. What are your goals? Apply Functionalism to education.

Under the loanable funds theory, the equilibrium interest rate is determined by the interaction between the...

Under the loanable funds theory, the equilibrium interest rate is determined by the interaction between the demand for and the supply of funds from financial market participants, mainly the household sector, the business sector and the government sector. Holding other factors constant, predict the change in domestic interest rates that would occur when facing each of the following situations. Explain your predictions in detail. i The total wealth of local financial market participants increases. ii The default risk of loans...

Subjects