The basis of symbolic interaction theory is the premise that people behave based on what they believe and not just on what is objectively true. It implies, our interpretation of the events, relationships, interactions or things/objects is solely based on our views only. According to the symbolic interaction perspective, people attach meanings to symbols; it examines stratification from a micro-level perspective. This analysis strives to explain how people’s social standing affects their everyday interactions. Money is the central goal in the United States and around the world. Crime is more common among people who are dissatisfied with their own living situation. There are class and race differences in views about what it means to live a ‘good life’. Because we have formed different classes in society, we created our own “symbol” and perspective of that is okay and not okay for us to accept. There is an important term- anomie- which means alienation or social instability caused by erosion of standards and values. Functionalists defends the status quo, avoid social change, and believe people cooperate to effect social order. Many people, especially those who are young, lower-class, and members of minority groups, experience difficulties in satisfying their desire to be viewed and treated as …show more content…
For example, our government or state, provide education for the children of the family. So we as people of the family depend on the school to teach our children well so they can grow up to have good jobs and become taxpaying citizens- who re-support the states. This process provide order, stability and productivity. If not, we will not be able to have those assistance programs provided by the government and taxpayers. If there is a financial crisis then social programs will get trimmed or cut, schools will offer fewer programs..etc. Functionalist believe that society is held together by the members of the society, they work together. Functionalism does not encourage people to take an active role in changing their social environment, even when such change may benefit