How can we view prostitution using Symbolic Interactionism?

Question

I understand that Symbolic Interactionism, alongside with Marxism & Class Confict and Funtionalism, are the three main theories in sociology. What I don't understand is how we can use SI to view a situation in describing the big picture (because it can't right?)

Using prostitution as an example: A functionalist may think that prostitution is necessary for society to function, while a conflict theorist figure out what forces drive the women into prosititution - poverty? unemployment? But how can a SI-ist view this situation? I don't quite understand.

Thanks for your response in advance!

Answer 1

From my grasp of SI: A sex worker may see the act of prostitution as power made real. She owns her own body, therefore it's her right to use it. It's basically what the sex act itself symbolizes for her power, control, love etc.....

I hope this helps....

Answer 2

You don't understand, because it doesn't make sense.

Why make a theory about something that is so concrete?

You can look at prostitution from a race, class and gender standpoint, an economic standpoint, etc.

The perform a service, that granted, is dirty work that few would be happy to do.

But as a symbolic function? No. People who work in the sex trade don't have a symbolic function.

The image of the prostitute has a symbolic function, as a prototype, but that is more in the realm of the literary field.

It actually makes my blood boil to think of people's roles in society reduced to "symbols".

Answer 3

i might say that i'm the two an 8 or 9. i think of of exterior of the sector better in many situations than in. optimal people opt to tease me approximately my philosophical suggestions, telling me that the elementary man or woman would not think of of roughly subject concerns the way I do. i do no longer grant myself a 10 even in spite of the undeniable fact that via way of actuality can all and sundry be THAT experienced with it? i became raised as a Christian yet am presently coping with a time in my existence the region i'm finding for ideas.

Answer 4

Interactionism doesn't have any "big picture" of prostitution (or any other social matter IMO). What interactionists have done is to study how girls drifted into prostitution, what it's like being a prostitute, how girls view their johns, and the like.

Answer 5

This is the problem with sociological theories, they are all crap. You can analyze any situation with common sense and logic, you don't need dogmatic, stupid sociological BS. Think for yourself.