Parsons asserted that there were two dimensions to societies: instrumental and expressive. By this he meant that there are qualitative differences between kinds of social interaction. Essentially, he observed that people can have personalized and formally detached relationships based on the roles that they play. The characteristics that were associated with each kind of interaction he called the pattern variables.Some examples of expressive societies would include families, churches, clubs, crowds, and smaller social settings. Examples of instrumental societies would include bureaucracies, aggregates, and markets.
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Talcott Parsons's pattern variables approach is a framework he developed to explain the dynamic interactions between different social institutions and the values and norms held by individuals in society. It identifies key dimensions along which individuals and institutions can be compared, such as affectivity vs affective neutrality, self-orientation vs collectivity orientation, and particularism vs universalism. By analyzing patterns of behavior across these variables, Parsons sought to understand how social systems maintain stability and adapt to change.
Talcott Parsons used the term "pattern variable" to characterize a feature of social change. This concept describes the different ways in which individuals and societies can address various challenges and tensions through different patterns of behavior and action.
Pattern maintenance refers to the process of keeping consistent and stable patterns or routines in place. This can involve maintaining established behaviors, practices, or systems to ensure continuity and efficiency in operations or personal habits. It is important for sustaining predictability and stability in various aspects of life or work.
A cyclic relationship in science refers to a situation where two or more components or variables interact with each other in a circular manner, leading to a repetitive pattern or feedback loop. This dynamic interaction can influence the behavior or properties of the system as a whole. Examples include the carbon cycle, water cycle, and predator-prey relationships.
An example of a cultural pattern is the tradition of exchanging gifts during holidays or ceremonies in many societies, contributing to building relationships and expressing gratitude.
Studying sociology helps architecture students understand how people interact with and perceive their built environment. It provides insights into social dynamics, cultural influences, and community needs, which can inform more sensitive and effective design decisions. This interdisciplinary approach can lead to more inclusive and responsive architectural solutions that better serve the diverse populations who interact with them.