functionalism Flashcards
What is the main focus of functionalist theory in sociology?
The main focus of functionalist theory is to understand how various parts of society function together to maintain stability and social order.
True or False: Functionalists view society as a living organism.
True
Which sociologist is most commonly associated with functionalism?
Emile Durkheim
Fill in the blank: Functionalism emphasizes the importance of ______ in maintaining social stability.
social institutions
What are the key components of social structures according to functionalist theory?
Social institutions, norms, and values.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a function of social institutions according to functionalists?
A) Socialization
B) Integration
C) Conflict
D) Regulation
C) Conflict
True or False: Functionalists believe that all social institutions serve a positive function.
True
Who introduced the idea of the ‘society as a system’?
Parsons
What does the term ‘manifest functions’ refer to?
Manifest functions are the intended and recognized consequences of a social structure.
What does the term ‘latent functions’ refer to?
Latent functions are the unintended and often hidden consequences of a social structure.
Fill in the blank: Functionalists argue that social change is ______.
disruptive
According to functionalism, what are the functions of education? A) Social stratification B) Personal development C) Social integration D) All of the above
- Social stratification
- Personal development
- Social integration
What is the role of deviance in functionalist theory?
Deviance serves to reinforce social norms and promote social cohesion.
True or False: Functionalism has been criticized for ignoring social change.
True
What is the ‘functionalist perspective’ on family?
The family serves essential functions such as socialization, emotional support, and regulation of sexual behavior.
Fill in the blank: According to functionalists, every social structure has a ______ that contributes to the society’s stability.
function
criticism of functionalism?
- It is too deterministic
- It overemphasises social cohesion
- assumes all members of society benefit equally
- It ignores individual choice-agency
- fails to acknowledge the harmful effect of some institutions
What is the difference between ‘social functions’ and ‘dysfunctions’?
Social functions are positive contributions to society, while dysfunctions are negative consequences that disrupt social stability.
True or False: Functionalists believe that social institutions evolve to meet the needs of society.
True
What is the ‘organic analogy’ in functionalism?
The organic analogy compares society to a living organism, where each part functions to maintain the whole.
Who emphasized the importance of social solidarity in functionalism?
Emile Durkheim
Multiple Choice: What is a key assumption of functionalism? A) Society is in constant conflict B) Society is primarily based on cooperation C) Society is static D) Society is individualistic
B) Society is primarily based on cooperation
True or False: Functionalism provides a comprehensive explanation for social phenomena.
False
What does Durkheim’s study of suicide illustrate in functionalist theory?
It illustrates the impact of social integration and regulation on individual behavior.
Fill in the blank: The functionalist perspective often overlooks the influence of ______.
power dynamics
What is the ‘collective conscience’ according to Durkheim?
The collective conscience refers to the set of shared beliefs and values that bind a society together.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is a key feature of functionalism? A) Emphasis on class struggle B) Focus on social order C) Individual focus D) Emphasis on economic factors
B) Focus on social order
True or False: Functionalists believe that all aspects of society are interconnected.
True
What is the role of religion in functionalist theory?
Religion serves to promote social cohesion and shared values among members of society.
Fill in the blank: According to functionalism, social institutions like the family and education are ______.
interdependent
Who argued that social order is maintained through consensus?
Parsons
functionalism is the idea that…
if all the systems in society are functioning in harmony it will remain healthy
social institutions function in 3 ways
- value consensus
- social integration
- specialised division of labour
value consensus
members socialised into broad agreement on value s, morality , norms and behaviour
social integration
people need to be encouraged to belong to a community
- common identity binds the individual to society
uk values
largely based on christianity - 10 commandments
from political perspective
- right wing
- ‘new right’ sociological and political theory , share functionalist principles but are more controversial
Industrial Revolution
functionalism out dated because skills needed before not the same as now
functional fit theory (who?)
Parsons
functional fit theory
family can perform many functions (depending on the needs of society)
Industrial society , 2 essential needs which requires the nuclear family to work
1) geographically mobile workforce
2) socially mobile workforce
Parsons argues family in modern society
has lost many of its functions. has become unit of consumption only
in modern society - nuclear family only has 2 essential/’irreducible’ functions
1) primary socialisation of children
2) stabilisation of adult personalities
