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Introduction
Food insecurities have existed since the beginning of time, but only since the development of structured society has the issue of poverty (i.e. lack of financial resources) been recognized as one of the underlying causes responsible for hunger, malnourishment, and subsequent death. Sociologists have spent years of research and exploration dedicated to understanding the intricacy of different societies, what components make them successful, and what shortcomings lead to their eventual collapse. Through this sociological analysis, we will explore three major social theories and their effectiveness in explaining why food insecurities still exist in modern, developed society.
Structural Functionalism
The theory of structural functionalism was originally introduced around the midpoint of the twentieth century, and is largely recognized by its contributions by sociologists Robert Merton and Talcott Parsons. Taking off as one of the most well respected theories, structural functionalism is a functionalist theory that see societal compliance as more than simply a means to avoid punishment, and rather a system of social conformity that is carried out by individuals in society. The passing of information from one generation to the next creates the rules and orders within society, and as they become acceptable or non-acceptable, shifts in the rules of society are implemented by the members. Parsons is noted for his establishment of the AGIL paradigm, which recognizes four main components of a successful and sustainable society, most of which are incorporated into a form of social order that puts the needs of society first.
However, it should be understood that structural functionalism is a theory which recognizes the complexity of society and the need for all parts to work together in order to be efficient. In this manner, the theory defines concepts such as social structures and social functions. Social structures are seen as often predictable patterns of behavior and groups within a society, such as families, religious affiliations, and communities which comprise the larger whole. Social functions can be seen as consequences to actions within a society, whether negative or positive.
Conflict Theory
Karl Marx is ultimately the founder of conflict theory, a sociological perspective that views the development of societies and social order through a historical lens. He believed that societies have developed over time to the changing needs of a growing population, and as the new world order of capitalism takes precedence, it is inevitable that a new form of society will be born from the unjust treatment between classes. His theory does not hint that there will be no divisions of class, but rather the ruler-ruled relationship would cease and a more efficient society would be born. He called this society a modern form of communism.
The major emphasis on conflict theory is social class and division of class based on socioeconomic status. Further concepts, such as institutional discrimination and structural inequality, have been implemented into the theoretical framework of conflict theory. These main terms are revolve around the division of classes within a capitalistic society, based on power, wealth, and prestige. A society that maintains the perception of treating all classes equally, yet has subtle implications that value the dominant class is an example of a society that is socially stratified via institutional discrimination or structural inequality. Conflict theory is largely centered on capitalism and the division between the elite and lower classes.
Symbolic Interactionism
Symbolic Interactionism is a theory that was devised by George Mead mainly through the observation of children at play. The main assumption of symbolic interactionism is that the concept of self is a copied and learned behavior, which brings with it an understanding of one’s personal moral code through the actions of others. It is not until a person fully develops a sense of self, or self-conscience, that they are aware that they are separate from other people yet uniquely interdependent. This perspective is largely psychological, but seeks to explain the unique interaction among individuals which collectively form a society. The main components of the symbolic interactionism theory are the mind, the self, and the society.
Conclusion
Although there are many theories as to how social problems surface themselves in a society that is conscious of the need to maintain the health and wellbeing of all its members, there is one theory that stands out above the rest. Conflict theory is arguably the best explanation for how and why poverty exists in society, and although capitalism is named as the main culprit of the class divide, it holds the most evidence and truth. This doesn’t mean that capitalism is necessarily an ineffective practice. On the contrary, capitalism is a viable choice for a thriving consumer-based economy, however it has the greatest impact on the individuals within that society. The distribution of wealth, power, and prestige is reserved for a small percentage of the population, leaving the majority of the population either in poverty or closely on the brink of poverty. It is an unstainable system that I believe Karl Marx correctly predicted will come to an abrupt and unpleasant halt if changes are not implemented quickly.
References
SociologyGuide.com. (2016, April 16). A Student's Guide to Sociology. Retrieved from Sociology Guide: http://www.sociologyguide.com/
