W.E.B. Du Bois made fundamental contributions to the field of sociology through his work studying the experiences and challenges of African American in the late 1890s and early 1900s. Based on his work, which sociological approach did Du Bois take?

• A. Functionalism.
• B. Conflict theory.
• C. Symbolic interactionism.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the key sociological approaches mentioned: Functionalism, Conflict Theory, and Symbolic Interactionism. Each approach offers a different lens to analyze society.
2. Step 2: Recall that Functionalism focuses on social stability and how different parts of society work together to maintain order.
3. Step 3: Recognize that Conflict Theory emphasizes power struggles, inequality, and social change, particularly focusing on conflicts between different social groups.
4. Step 4: Note that Symbolic Interactionism studies everyday interactions and the meanings individuals attach to symbols and social behaviors.
5. Step 5: Analyze Du Bois's work, which highlighted racial inequality, social injustice, and the struggles of African Americans, aligning closely with the Conflict Theory perspective that centers on power and inequality.