Functionalism Flashcards
Give 4 examples of social institutions
- Education 2. Family 3. Religion 4. Legal System
functionalist theorists?
Durkheim- socialising value consensus
Parsons- bridge between family and society
Davis & Moore- role allocation
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.
Shared agreement on what values and beliefs are acceptable and valuable.
Why do Functionalists see social inequality as beneficial to society?
Social inequality preforms essential functions like role allocation. ( Davis and Moor )
What is role allocation?
Certain jobs given to people best suited for the role. based on talent and abilities
Strengths of Functionalism.
- Recognises how institutions benefit society
- Shows the significance of Socialisation.
- doesn’t encourage social solidarity but individualism and competition.
Weaknesses of Functionalism.
- Too deterministic - fails to see that the process of socialisation never fails.
- sees kids as passive and docile
- Overemphasises consensus and order, doesn’t acknowledge cultural differences.
Durkheim
main purpose of school is to socialise children to a value consensus in means of social solidary.
functionalist theory
focuses on how schools create a social cohesion to contribute positively to society.
Talcott Parsons
schools act as a bridge between family and society. society is a meritocracy.
Meritocracy
when social society where success is dependant on individuals efforts, ability and talents rather than age, gender or wealth
Davis and Moore
role allocation ( sift, sort and allocate on talent. meritocracial society
