Sociologists investigate social marvels at various levels and from alternate points of view. From robust understandings to clearing speculations of society and social conduct, sociologists study everything at both the micro and macro levels. Consequently, three major sociological theories have emerged, which are used by sociologists today. These include functionalist perspective, conflict perspective, and symbolic interactionist theory.
Applied at the micro level, the symbolic interactionism theory guides sociologists to look into the images and subtle elements of daily existence, what these images mean, and how individuals connect with one another. This theory applies to the study of Thanksgiving Day that is observed in the United States (U.S), Canada, and other nations. The cooking of turkey and saying of grace are symbolic of this day and form the core components of the Thanksgiving meal. Over time, the reasons for a Thanksgiving Day have varied from one country to another. In some cases, the meal symbolizes appreciation for a good harvest and in others, it is a celebration of a significant achievement, amongst other things. Against this background, some of the questions that symbolic interactionism theory would ask include; what does Thanksgiving mean? How do people give it that meaning? This theory differs from functionalism theory in that it does not believe in social consensus, as is the case for functionalism theory. Likewise, it has been criticized for neglecting the macro level of analysis, and for disregarding the influence of institutions and social forces on individual interactions.
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In functionalism theory, every community has similar functions and national events where people's association with the larger population is reactivated. Therefore, a family, in this case, relies on institutions such as schools to assist children in building their future. Thanksgiving is therefore viewed as an integral component of the society, with vital contributions to it. The celebration of achievement can symbolize an essential step towards fostering future success in the community. However, this theory studies Thanksgiving Day in a way that ignores any negative consequences to the society. Subsequently, it has been criticized. Likewise, the theory is keen on encouraging complacency and status quo, which has also been the subject of its criticism. The theory would ask such questions as; what is the role of a Thanksgiving Day? To what extent does the day influence the larger society? How can Thanksgiving traditions be maintained? Functionalism views every piece of society in terms of how it adds to the strength of the entire society. In this case, society is more than the total of its parts; rather, every piece is utilitarian for the strength of the wholeness.
Lastly, the conflict theory is applied at a macro level and differs from the two theories in that it focuses mainly on the negative aspects of the society. According to this perspective, the society always conflicts and its nature is ever changing. Likewise, the status quo is challenged, and unlike others where social change is avoided, conflict theory encourages change in the society. For instance, the excessive eating and making merry may symbolize lack empathy for the less fortunate in the community. Thus, the theory would call for a shift towards giving the less fortunate in the community while marking this day. Therefore, important questions that the conflict theory is likely to ask are; is Thanksgiving necessary in the society? What are the negative implications of the Thanks Giving Day? Instead of a Thanksgiving Day, are there better ways of celebrating achievement? Critics of the conflict theory point to its excessively negative perspective of society.
