Y13 - Functionalism Flashcards
(18 cards)
What type of theory is Functionalism
A modernist structuralist consensus theory
Definition of Functionalism
Functionalism regards as society as a stable, harmonious integrated social system, with social order & cohesion maintained by a fundamental value consensus
The Organic Analogy
Society is viewed as the human body; functioning together to work harmoniously (Parsons)
Functional Prerequisite
Society must satisfy 4 requirementents:
- Goal Attainment
- Integration
- Adaptation
- Latency
Adaptation
Society must be able to adapt and evolve
Integration
Society must be regulated & controlled using legal systems
Goal Attainment
Society must have goals and aspirations
Latency
Must ensure society has conformity (Moral commitment)
Emile Durkheim
- Argued value consensus holds society from falling apart. (Social Order)
- Places major emphasis on institutions to use the socialisation process to create a ‘collective conscience’
Social Differentiation
Institutions & roles become more specialised as society adapts & evolves
Merton
- Criticises Parsons
- Argued that dysfunction in society causes imperfections
- Suggests that there are manifest functions & latency functions
Manifest Function
- The intended function (e.g. A hospital has the MANIFEST function of providing healthcare)
Latent Function
- The non-intended (e.g. A hospital has a LATENT function of helping teachers find partners)
Why does Durkheim place major emphasis on the socialisation process
He had a pessimistic view of humanity, he believed that it creates a “collective conscience”
Advantage of Functionalism
- Explains social order and stability
- Produces a general theory of the workings of society
Disadvantages of Functionalism
- It over-emphasis on harmony and value consensus
- Tries to explain everything from a single perspective
- Tends to be very conservative and ignorant of recent change
Pessimistic
Tending to see the worst aspect of things or believe that the worst will happen.
Examples of Collective Consciousness
- Gender norms concerning how people dress and act.
- Laws that socialize people into what is “right and wrong” in their society.
