Functionalists and social policy

Question 1

How do functionalists view social policy?

Answer 1

A mechanism for maintaining social order and stability.
These policies support key institutions.
(Family - Education - Economy)

These policies ensure society functions smoothly.

Question 2

What does Durkheim argue about social policies?

Answer 2

Believed that social policies should promote social solidarity/integration.

He argued that institutions like educations and welfare systems help individuals feel connected to society.

Question 3

What does Parsons argue about social policies?

Answer 3

Policies necessary for maintaining (value consensus) and social equilibrium.

Policies reinforce shared norms and values preventing social instability.

Question 4

What are some examples of functionalist social policies ?

Answer 4

Education policies:
Compulsory schooling ensuring secondary socialisation for children - shared norms and values.
(Promote meritocracy)

Crime policies - Rehabilitation programs aim to reintegrate offenders maintaining social cohesion and preventing anomie.

Welfare state - NHS/Pensions/unemployment benefits support individuals and prevent dysfunction in society.

Question 5

What are issues with the Functionalist view?

Answer 5

Marxist argue that Functionalists are overly optimistic assuming that all policies benefit society equally.

Ignores power dynamics - ignores how policies may serve elite interests. (The gov/ruling class)

Lacks diversity - Assumes a universal approach to social problems.

Fails to tackle the root causes - We need to change the basic structure of society in order to solve these specific problems. (Capitalist society causes the problems).