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Applying the Sociological Perspectives

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Applying the Sociological Perspectives
The issue I have chosen is the use of social networking websites and how the three sociological perspectives apply to them. The use of social networking website has become a social norm in the way our society communicates with each one another. I believe that there are benefits with using social networking websites in your private and public life. On the other hand, I do believe that with social networking websites, the boundary between our private and public life merge and become difficult to separate.

Functionalism
According to Griffiths & et. al (2015), functionalism is a structure with interrelated parts designed to meet the biological and social needs of the individuals in that society. Functionalism relates to the use of social media in the way of an individual uses social networking and technology in contributing to the functioning of their society. The use of social networking has become a social norm in our society. Functionalism and the use of social media help an individual pass on their social facts to the next generation. "Social facts are the laws, morals, values, religious beliefs, customs, fashions, rituals, and all of the cultural rules that govern social life (Durkheim 1895)"(Griffiths, et, al, 2015, Pg.15). The use of social networking and media websites influence us in our societies perception of what is good or bad, beautiful or ugly, how to speak, what to wear, and how to react to certain situations and events. With a social networking page, you can generate your own "online" identity. With your online presence, you can influence your own social group and contribute to the functioning of society.

Conflict Theory
According to Griffiths & et. al (2015), conflict theory looks at society as competition for limited resources. Conflict theory can explain how who controls social media and how

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