Functionalist theories

Question 1

What approach is functionalism

Answer 1

Consensus theory/ approach

Question 2

What is the system of society

Answer 2

Organic analogy - like the human body and the organs that work together to help regulate and upkeep the body. Society works on a similar level with their different institutions

Question 3

System Needs

Answer 3

Functionalist see it as the social system as having basic needs that need to be met to survive.
members must be socialised for society to continue

Question 4

Functions

Answer 4

Functionalist see any part of a system is the contribution it makes to meeting the systems needs.

Question 5

Parsons - ‘Value Consensus’ and social order

Answer 5

Social order is achieved through shared culture or a ‘central value system’

Question 6

Parson systems needs

Answer 6

Goal attainment
Adaptation - social system meets members material needs
Integration - parts of soviet have to be integrated to pursue shared goals
Latency - maintaining society over-time

Question 7

Parsons Two types of society

Answer 7

Each has their own set of norms
Traditional - individuals are expected to put collective interests first

Modern - we peruse individual self- interest. We are also all judged by the same universalistic standards.
Parsons says this change was gradual