Introduction to Functionalism

Question 1

Outline the main two thinkers of Functionalism.

Answer 1

Emile Durkheim.
Parsons.

Question 2

What type of theory is Functionalism?

Answer 2

Structural theory: Social institutions influence the
running of society and individual
behaviour.

Consensus theory: Believes that institutions of society
are working together to maintain
social cohesion and stability

Question 3

Define value consensus.

Answer 3

A majority of society agree with
the goals that society sets to
show success

Question 4

Define anomie.

Answer 4

A feeling of normlessness
where a person doesn’t know
what it means to be normal
within society.

Question 5

Define the organic analogy.

Answer 5

Society acts in a
similar way to the
human body through
the way that social
institutions in the
same way as human
organs.