Which perspective involves thinking about society as a functioning unit, with each part related to the whole?

Symbolic interactionism focuses on the subjective meanings and everyday interactions among individuals. It examines how people create, interpret, and negotiate symbols and meanings in their social experiences, rather than viewing society as a cohesive whole. This approach is more concerned with micro-level interactions than the larger social structure.

Conflict theory posits that society is characterized by social inequality and power struggles between different groups, such as the wealthy and the poor. It emphasizes competition and conflict over cooperation, viewing societal change as a result of these tensions. This perspective does not consider society as a harmonious unit but rather as a site of constant struggle.

Feminist theory analyzes the role of gender in social structures, highlighting the inequalities and power dynamics between genders. While it critiques traditional power relations and advocates for social change, it does not primarily focus on the idea of society functioning as a cohesive unit, which is central to functionalism.