Functionalism in sociology is a theory that analyzes society as a complex system with interdependent parts working to maintain stability and social order. It was pioneered by Émile Durkheim, who introduced social solidarity and the concept of anomie. Talcott Parsons and Robert Merton further developed the framework, focusing on social institutions' roles and the distinction between manifest and latent functions.
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Functionalism is a sociological perspective that views society as a complex system with interdependent parts that work together to maintain stability and solidarity
Social Solidarity
Durkheim believed that shared beliefs and values foster social solidarity, which is essential for maintaining social order
Division of Labor
Durkheim's studies on the division of labor highlighted the importance of a collective conscience in preventing societal disintegration
Anomie
Durkheim's concept of anomie refers to a state of normlessness that can arise when social norms are unclear or eroding
Structural Functionalism
Parsons' structural functionalism framework compares society to a biological organism, with social institutions playing vital roles in maintaining stability
System Needs
Parsons identified four system needs that must be met for a society to function effectively: adaptation, goal attainment, integration, and latency
Manifest and Latent Functions
Merton distinguished between manifest functions, the intended consequences of social actions, and latent functions, the unintended consequences
Strain Theory
Merton's strain theory explores how societal structures can lead to anomie and potentially deviant behavior
Functionalism has been criticized for overlooking power differentials and structural inequalities related to class, race, and gender
Some argue that functionalism's focus on social stability may discourage transformative social change
Critics suggest that functionalism underemphasizes the role of individuals in shaping social structures
Functionalism provides a comprehensive framework for understanding how social institutions and structures are interconnected and contribute to the functioning of society
The concept of social solidarity highlights the significance of shared norms and values in maintaining social cohesion
Functionalism emphasizes the role of socialization in shaping individual behavior and maintaining social order
Despite criticisms, functionalism remains an influential theoretical perspective in sociology, providing a foundational approach for analyzing social phenomena
00
The functionalist perspective was first introduced by ______ and later expanded by scholars like ______ and ______.
Émile Durkheim
Talcott Parsons
Robert Merton
01
Durkheim's concept of social solidarity
Belief in shared values and norms that bind society together.
02
Meaning of anomie in Durkheim's studies
A state where social norms are confused, leading to a lack of social regulation.
