Functionalism

Question 1

What is functionalism?

Answer 1

structural consensus approach that believes social institutions shape individuals into norms and values

it believes society is harmonious due to a value consensus

Question 2

What does Durkheim talk about?

Answer 2

Has an advanced study of sociology as a science, through positivist methods

concerned with rapid social change

argued social order can be maintained in modern society through institutions which create social cohesion

social cohesion was achieved by institutions reinforcing norms and values

Question 3

What does Parson say”

Answer 3

Parsons identifies 4 systems that are needed to maintain society

1. goal attainment: seeing goals in society to ensure the needs of the many are met
2. adaptation: the economy needs to provide for the material needs of the population
3. integration: bring together society through institutions that create value consensus
4. Latency: Pattern management and Tension management

Question 4

What does Meron argue?

Answer 4

Internal critique of functionalism

argued society is more dysfunctional than Durkheim portrays it

critiqued parsons idea of institutions being interconnected, instead argued that they have functional autonomy

Question 5

What are the criticisms of functionalism?

Answer 5

Overly deterministic - argues that human nature is determined by outside factors

marxists and feminists would argue that the value consensus is a lie and the values are that of the MC/bourgeoisie/patriarchy/men