Functionalist theory Flashcards
What is a consensus theory?
Theory that people in society having shared norms and values
What does Value Consensus mean?
- social order is achieved through a value system - a shared culture
- norms & values within allow for cooperation
- social order is only possible if ppl agree on these values
Anomie means..
too much freedom so there is no clear guidance, individuals then suffer a sense of uncertainty and confusion
DURKHEIM : What are social facts?
Social facts include such things as beliefs, moral codes, and basic norms and values which are passed from one generation to the next and shared by individuals who make up a society.
How does society shape the individual?
- society has a reality of its own over and above the individuals who comprise it.
- members of society are constrained by ‘social facts’
- not the consciousness of the individual that directs human behaviour but common beliefs and sentiments which shape his or her consciousness.
What is social solidarity socialisation?
- societies needed to create a sense of social solidarity - which is making individuals feel as if they part of something bigger and teaching them the standards of acceptable behaviour.
Three similarities between society and biological organisms
- Both self-regulating
- Both have sub-systems that perform specific needs
- Both have needs
Two means of maintaining value consensus
- Socialisation
2. Social control
What are the four basic needs of society?
G - Goal Attainment
A - Adaptation
I - Integration
L - Latency
Merton three main criticisms of Parson’s assumptions
- Indispensability
- Functional unity
- Universal functionalism
Indispensability defintion
Parsons assumes everything in society is functionally indispensable in its existing from. Merton argues its an untested symptom
Functional unity definition
Parsons assumes all parts of society are tightly integrated. Each part is functional for the rest. Change is one part that will have knock on effect for rest.
Universal functionalism definition
Parsons assumes everything in society performs positive function. Idea of dysfunction = idea that there may be conflicts of interest. some groups may be able to keep arrangements in place that benefit them at expense of others.
What is a manifest function?
the intended function of social policies, processes, or actions that are consciously and deliberately designed to be beneficial in their effect on society
What is a latent function?
a latent function is one that is not consciously intended, but that, nonetheless, has a beneficial effect on society.
- promotes social solidarity
