Functionalism Flashcards
Give 4 examples of social institutions
- Education 2. Family 3. Religion 4. Legal System
2 main functionalist theorists?
Durkheim and Parsons
What is a structural theory?
Functionalists believe human behaviour is shaped by society and its social structures.
Whats a ‘Top Down’ theory?
A theory which looks at how social institutions shape human behaviour.
What does Durkheim compare society to?
A human body (human analogy)
What are the 4 needs of society?
- Social Order 2. Reproduction 3. Economical Needs 4. Emotional Support
How is behaviour controlled? Give examples.
Formal Control - Police, Military, Sanctions in schools, Courts etc.
Informal Control - Socialisation, Media.
= these ensure social order.
What is Socialisation?
The key way of maintaining shared norms, values and behaviours.
Explain what value consensus is.
Society having shared norms and values.
Why do Functionalists see social inequality as beneficial to society?
Social inequality preforms essential functions like role allocation.
What is role allocation?
Certain jobs given to people best suited for the role.
Strengths of Functionalism.
- Recognises how institutions benefit society 2. Shows the significance of Socialisation.
Weaknesses of Functionalism.
- Too deterministic - fails to see that the process of socialisation never fails.
- Doesn’t recognise conflict within society 3. Overemphasises consensus and order, doesn’t acknowledge cultural differences.
