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Teaching Note Theories of Social Action Course: MSO-001 Topic: Action Theories in Sociology Introduction Action theories focus on: “How individuals act, think, and make choices in society.” Unlike structural theories (which focus on social systems and structures), action theories emphasize: individual meanings motives choices interpretation Important thinkers: Max Weber Talcott Parsons 1️⃣ Max Weber’s Theory of Social Action Meaning of Social Action According to Max Weber: Social action is any action that has meaning for the individual and is directed toward others. People act based on: beliefs emotions traditions goals Verstehen (Interpretive Understanding) Weber introduced the idea of: “Verstehen” (German word) Meaning: understanding people’s actions from their point of view. Sociologists should understand: feelings intentions meanings behind actions Simple Example A student studies hard. To truly understand the actio...