This episode introduces two significant modern sociological perspectives: feminism and postmodernism. It explains that feminist theories share the core belief that society is patriarchal, leading to the oppression of women, and explores liberal, Marxist, and radical feminist approaches to challenging this inequality. The discussion then transitions to postmodernism, characterising it as a departure from traditional sociology that rejects universal truths and 'grand narratives' due to society's increased diversity and fragmentation. Finally, it highlights key postmodern concepts such as fluid identity and hyper-reality, where the lines between what is real and what is fictional have become blurred.

This episode introduces Max Weber's sociological approach and the emergence of symbolic interactionism. It explains Weber's focus on social action and his methodology of verstehen, or empathetic understanding, to grasp the meanings and motives behind human behaviour. Examples of Weber's work, such as 'The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism' and his concerns about bureaucracy and rationalisation, are provided. The discussion then transitions to symbolic interactionism, a micro-level theory that developed from Weber's ideas, highlighting its emphasis on symbols and constructed meanings in social interaction. Concepts like the 'looking-glass self' and the dramaturgical approach are presented to illustrate how individuals shape their self-perception and perform roles based on social interactions.

This episode introduces Karl Marx and Émile Durkheim, two foundational figures in sociology, outlining their distinct theoretical perspectives. Marx is presented as the originator of conflict theory, positing that society is shaped by competition for resources and the exploitation of the working class (proletariat) by the ruling class (bourgeoisie) under capitalism, ultimately predicting a revolutionary overthrow. Conversely, Durkheim established functionalism, viewing society as an integrated system where each component serves a purpose to maintain stability and harmony. His concepts include social facts, the study of social solidarity (mechanical and organic), and anomie, a state of normlessness linked to societal disarray. The text highlights how these theorists offer contrasting views on the fundamental nature of society, with Marx focusing on struggle and Durkheim on cohesion.