Page 1: Social Action Theories and Symbolic Interaction

Weber's social action theory examines both structural factors and individual meanings in social behavior. His approach emphasizes understanding (verstehen) how people interpret and act upon their social world.

Definition: Methodological individualism suggests that social phenomena can be explained through individual actions and decisions.

Weber identified four types of social action:

• Instrumental rational action
• Value rational action
• Traditional action
• Affective action

Example: The Protestant work ethic demonstrates how religious beliefs (Calvinism) influenced economic behavior and helped shape modern capitalism.

Symbolic interactionism emphasizes how society emerges through symbolic communication and meaning-making.

Vocabulary: Role-taking refers to the ability to imagine and understand others' perspectives, leading to empathy and social coordination.

Goffman's dramaturgical model presents social life as a theatrical performance:

Highlight: Impression management involves carefully controlling how we present ourselves to others, including managing our language, tone, and expressions.

Quote: "The self is constructed by manipulating other people's impressions of them."