Programme Code: MSO
Course Code: MSO-001
Parsons’ Action Theory is a sociological theory developed by American sociologist Talcott Parsons to understand how individuals and society interact. It is part of his larger framework to explain human behavior and social systems. Parsons wanted to explain how individual actions are connected to larger social structures like institutions and norms.
Here’s a breakdown of Parsons’ Action Theory in simple terms:
1. What is Action Theory?
Action Theory tries to explain how individuals make decisions (actions) and how these decisions are influenced by the society they live in. Parsons believed that human actions are not random but are guided by a mix of personal choices and societal expectations.
2. Four Components of Action
Parsons said that any action by an individual has four key components. These are:
- Actor: The individual or group who is taking the action.
- Means: The tools or resources the actor uses to achieve a goal.
- Goal: The purpose or objective of the action.
- Conditions: The external factors or environment that may affect the action.
For example, if a student studies for an exam:
- The actor is the student.
- The means could be books and study materials.
- The goal is to pass the exam.
- The conditions could include factors like time constraints or the difficulty of the subject.
3. The Social System
Parsons believed that actions are always influenced by a social system, which includes norms, values, and institutions. These systems guide how individuals act, meaning that we do not act purely based on our personal desires but also follow societal rules.
For instance, we follow rules at school, in our family, and in public. These rules shape our behavior. Parsons called these rules norms and said they are part of the social system that keeps society functioning smoothly.
4. Pattern Variables
Parsons introduced the idea of pattern variables to explain the different choices individuals make in different social contexts. He identified five pairs of contrasting choices that guide human actions. These are:
- Affectivity vs. Affective Neutrality: Whether actions are guided by emotions or rational decision-making.
- Self-orientation vs. Collectivity-orientation: Whether actions focus on personal interests or group interests.
- Universalism vs. Particularism: Whether actions are based on general rules or specific relationships.
- Ascription vs. Achievement: Whether actions are based on assigned status (like age or gender) or individual achievements.
- Specificity vs. Diffuseness: Whether actions are focused on specific roles or broad relationships.
5. AGIL Model
Parsons also introduced the AGIL model to explain how social systems maintain stability. He argued that for any social system to function, it must satisfy four functional requirements:
- A: Adaptation – how a system adapts to its environment.
- G: Goal Attainment – how a system defines and achieves its goals.
- I: Integration – how different parts of the system work together.
- L: Latency (Pattern Maintenance) – how a system maintains values and norms over time.
Conclusion
Parsons’ Action Theory explains human behavior by looking at how individual actions are influenced by both personal choices and social rules. It connects individual actions to larger social structures, showing how society shapes, guides, and regulates behavior.
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