Functionalism

Question 1

What is the organic analogy?

Answer 1

Parsons- Likens society to an organism
1)System= institutions such as families, education system etc. work together to regulate society.
2)System needs- organisms have needs= society has needs for survival e.g adequate socialisation
3)Functions- how the institution maintains social order

Question 2

According to Parsons, how is social order achieved?

Answer 2

Through shared culture, norms values, beliefs goals etc.
-This creates value consensus

Question 3

What are the two mechanisms the system has for ensuring its needs are met?

Answer 3

-Socialisation; internalise systems norms and values so it becomes part of personality= shared norms
-Social control; conformity get positive rewards whereas decviance is punished. e.g rewarding those with educational success, stigmatising drop outs