Social theory is a branch of sociology that seeks to understand society by examining the underlying structures, systems, and patterns that shape human behavior and interactions. It encompasses a wide range of perspectives and approaches, including functionalism, conflict theory, symbolic interactionism, and feminist theory, among others. Social theorists often analyze power dynamics, social hierarchies, cultural norms, and historical context to better understand social phenomena such as inequality, deviance, social change, and globalization. By critically examining these aspects of society, social theorists aim to uncover the root causes of social problems and propose solutions for creating a more just and equitable society.