A theory is defined as “a coherent group of tested general propositions, commonly regarded as correct, that can be used as principles of explanation and prediction for a class of phenomena.” There are three major theories that sociologists use when viewing social life: Structural Functionalism, Conflict Theory, and Symbolic Interactionism. I will offer a brief explanation of each theory and apply each one of these theories to prostitution.
Structural Functionalism focuses on viewing society as a whole, instead of on a smaller level. The theory views social life as having many smaller parts that all work together. It is studied at the macro-level. For example, think of a fire pump. The goal of a fire pump is plain and simple – to save lives. There are many parts within the pump that must work together to make it work properly. The speed increaser/pump transmission, the impeller shaft assembly, and the pump body all play very important roles in the flow of water through the pump and into the discharge hose for firefighting operations. The structure represents how all parts of society fit together to make the whole and the function represents each smaller part and how it works together. There are two different kind of functions to consider when studying structural functionalism. The first is manifest functions. Manifest functions are beneficial consequences of a social process that are intentional and obvious. The second is latent functions. Latent functions are beneficial consequences of a social process that are unintentional and not obvious. For example, the manifest function of having dinner together as a family is to provide food for your family. The latent function of sharing a meal together is family bonding. The main goal of a family dinner is to eat, but it has an added benefit of time together with loved ones. Sometimes consequences can be harmful instead of beneficial, and we call these latent dysfunctions. These too are unintended, but the outcome is not positive. For example, the manifest function of my husband using his company plow on our driveway is to quickly and efficiently clear snow from our driveway. A latent function of this is he doesn’t have to shovel with his bad hip and he isn’t in pain. A latent dysfunction of this is the plow digs up the lawn and we are left with big muddy ruts in the spring that need to be repaired. Structural functionalism can be applied to the topic of prostitution. Functionalists view prostitution as a whole that serves society. It relieves sexual tension and creates jobs. Manifest functions of prostitution include the decline is sexual frustration. These is a demand for this service as prostitutes meet this supply and demand. It is human nature for people to want sex. If they can’t get it on their own, they will pay for it. They also relieve stress and sexual tension in society, as there are some men who are unwilling or unable to engage in long-term meaningful relationships. Prostitution has several latent functions to consider. There is a decline in rapes and other violent sex crimes because men have that outlet available to them. Also, it is creating jobs and providing financial stability for uneducated lower class women who need to provide for themselves and their families. There are also many latent dysfunctions of prostitution. STD’s are a negative side effect, as is drug use, violence, and mental instability. Also, both clients and prostitutes can be sent to prison. Families can be torn apart. Prostitution can lead to unplanned pregnancy, which brings more children into the dark world of sex and drugs, many of whom grow up into the profession.
Conflict theory focuses on the inequality in our society. It shows us another view on social life and is generally studied at the macro-level. It was derived from the workings of Karl Marx, who observed people of lower social classes being exploited by small groups who are very powerful. Conflict theory conveys social life as a constant struggle between the groups and resources that are not in abundance. It is an abuse of power and comes down to the “wealthy vs. poor.” It can also be viewed as “winners” and “losers”, the winners being those with the most power with the greatest social and economic resources who benefit greatly by taking advantage of the losers, who are always at a disadvantage. Conflict theory can be applied to the topic of prostitution. Many prostitutes are young, poor, and uneducated women. Many times prostitution is a survival tactic for these women, since they are unable to earn money due to their poverty and lack of education. Many have no other option than to sell the only thing they own – their bodies. Also, many prostitutes are controlled by pimps or madams. The pimps and madams “own” their staff, and exploit them for their own benefit. When the prostitutes earns money for turning a trick, she does not see most of the profit. She has to turn over a majority of the money to her “boss”, and being left with very little to survive off of, she must continue to sell her body. The pimps and madams live a luxurious life off the earnings of their prostitutes, and often abuse them. A majority of these pimps are criminals, but society seems to take light of that fact. I find it shocking that I can find pimp costumes for a child in the Halloween aisle at Party City.
Symbolic Interactionism focuses on small scale issues in society. It is studied at the micro-level. It is based on the ideas of George Herbert Mead. Society is able to assign meaning to people and things through the use of symbols and then society develops its own interpretations of those symbols. Anything can be a symbol, but we must look further and explore the true meaning of that symbol. Symbolism helps society assign meaning to things, events, and people and we can have different meanings for different symbols. Symbolic Interactionism can be applied to the topic of prostitution. When viewed through symbolic interactionism, prostitution can be glorified and viewed symbolically and sometimes that view just is not realistic. The first thing that comes to my mind is “Pretty Woman.” A beautiful girl down on her luck working the corner meets a wealthy handsome bachelor who buys her for a night, they fall in love, and life is grand. She lives the good life while “working” for him with fancy dinners, an expensive wardrobe, and sparkling diamonds. Other symbolic meanings attached to this institution relate to power, prestige, money, emotional fulfillment, and sexual desirability. Prostitutes view their work symbolically as a way to make good money and get attention. Pimps prosper financially and view prostitution symbolically as a path to success. Johns view prostitution symbolically as a fantasy, an opportunity to play the role of a strong powerful male, the fantasy of being with and dominating over attractive woman or the misconception of freedom to act without have any consequences. In reality, prostitutes are degraded and abused both physically and emotionally. They contract diseases and get pregnant. In reality pimps can go to jail, become addicted to drugs, and catch diseases. In reality clients are harming their health and their families’ health and are contributing to the abuse of these women. They may also end up in jail. Prostitution is symbolically viewed as a “good time” instead of “doing time.”
In conclusion, there are several different views of prostitution in society when applying these different theories. Each theory focuses of a different aspect and provides a unique interpretation. I have actually learned a great deal about the sociological theories while working on this assignment.