Question

Em Griffin (your primary reading) discussed a number of critiques of the theory of symbolic interactionism. Look at the statements below and identify which agree with her assessment of the theory. Select 5 that apply (5 marks)

A.
The theory could have done more to change social injustices by focusing on issues of power.

B.
Symbolic interactionism is a difficult theory to test.

C.
The theory’s scope is too limited, focusing on an aspect of the phenomenon that is too specific.

D.
The theory does not meet the parsimony criterion (that is, it is not appropriately simple), but rather tries to cover too many ideas and uses too many unclear concepts.

E.
The theory has gained wide acceptance in sociology, communication, and related fields.

F.
The theory provides heuristic value, generating new thinking.

G.
The theory does not get us to look at the self and society in new ways.

Answer 1

A, B, C, E, F

Brief justification:
- A: Griffin criticizes the theory for downplaying power and social injustice.
- B: She notes its interpretive nature makes empirical testing difficult.
- C: She argues its scope is limited (micro-level focus).
- E: She acknowledges the theory’s wide acceptance in sociology and related fields.
- F: She credits it with strong heuristic value, generating new thinking.