Index IntroductionStructural functionalism and conflict theoryDifferences and similarities between conflict theory and functionalismConclusionWorks citedIntroductionLanguage is an absolutely fundamental element for communication. However, the language can also be confusing at times. Humans certainly understand a common exchange of words, but in most cases it can be a little confusing when the terms are not fully understood. Words can be exchanged between the speaker and the listener, but if the terms are not fully known by both parties, misunderstandings are likely to occur between the two. If two people have a different definition of feminism, their interpretation may differ from the other. For example, let's say Person A sees feminism as women trying to outsmart men and promote superiority, and Person B sees feminism as women trying to equalize the rights of males and females. If these two people were to have a conversation about this topic, there could definitely be a complicated discussion between the two. Of course, in this case, it is Person A who is wrong considering the literal definition of the word feminism; but because Person B was knowledgeable about the word, she was much more educated than Person A about the topic. In the context of functionalism and conflict theory, such disparities in understanding and interpretation can have a significant impact on the discourse surrounding sociological paradigms. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay However, Person B was adamant in his definition because of what he saw and witnessed in the media about extremists simultaneously using this word that activists themselves do. Person B chose to believe what he saw when the word was used and therefore the actual meaning of the term. Despite his reasoning based on misunderstanding, just like Person B, many other people will be equally reluctant about similar topics. Especially today in society where so many terms are thrown around easily and prevent activists from moving forward with their movements. The overuse of terms and their use in conversations where they don't apply are just two of the few examples of how these controversies can ultimately eradicate movements. Just like the terms explained above, in sociology, structural functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism are often confused because they are paradigms. Paradigms are a set of structures used to simplify and explain things in sociology. Structural Functionalism and Conflict Theory Structural functionalism is a theoretical paradigm that views society as a complex system in which the parts function together to foster unity and stability. Conflict theories are concepts in sociology and social psychology that reflect a materialistic worldview, a dialectical theory of study, a pragmatic approach to current social structures, and a radical political agenda or, at a minimum, change. Symbolic interactionism is a theory of sociology that emerges from practical questions and refers to the specific use of language by people to produce images and natural consequences for inference and mutual communication. Functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism are three fundamentally different and prevalent sociological perspectives that exchange fundamental differences due to the methods by which they evaluate the social environment. Functionalism, conflict theory, 2015.