Functionalist Theory

Question 1

Functionalist Theory - Intro

Answer 1

• See soc as meritocratic
• Subsystems wokr together to ensure soc is integrated

Question 2

Functionalist Theory - Organic Analogy - Parsons

Answer 2

• Soc is based on consensus (shared norms)
• Soc is like a human body:
- system, needs + functions

Question 3

Functionalist Theory - Functionalist Prerequisites - Parsons

Answer 3

1) Goal Attainment
2) Adaptation –> provide adequate standard of living
3) Integration –> value consensus
4) Latency –> hidden functions (Ed teaches + socialises)

Question 4

Functionalist Theory - Social Integration + Value Consensus Parsons

Answer 4

• Stable soc must have value consensus
• Value consensus maintained by:
- socialisation –> internalising values
- Social control –> follow values = reward

Question 5

Functionalist Theory - Social Change + 2 societies - Parsons

Answer 5

• Soc changes overtime naturally
• Change in 1 function = Change across while
• 2 societies:
- Traditional –> simple, religion + family main institutions, diffuse relationships (satisfy needs), collective orientation
- Modern –> complex, multiple institutions, contractual relationships, indicidualism

Question 6

Functionalist Theory - Internal Critique of Functionalism - Merton

Answer 6

1) Indispensability –> Parsons believe functions don’t change, Merton - functional alternatives
2) Functional Unity –> Parsons believes tightly integrated, Merton says some parts distantly related
3) Universal Functionalism–> Parsons - functions are all pos - Merton - functional + dysfunctional

Question 7

Functionalist Theory - Merton redefined 2 of Parsons functions

Answer 7

Universal Functionalism
• Manifest functions –> pos expected
• Latent functions –> pos hidden
• Manifest dysfunctions –> neg expected
• Latent dysfunctions–> neg unintended

Question 8

Functionalist Theory - Logical Criticisms

Answer 8

• Unscientific
- Popper –> Functionalism isn’t falsifianle - can’t prove Merton functional + dysfunctional theory wrong

Question 9

Functionalist Theory - Marxist Criticisms

Answer 9

• Ignores soc conflict
- organic analogy–> assumes soc is harmonious
- soc is in constant conflict (bourg vs prolet)
- Functionalism is capitalist ideology
• harmony hides true conflict + allows bourgeoisie to maintain dominance

Question 10

Functionalist Theory - Interactionist Criticisms - Wong

Answer 10

• Functionalism is deterministic
- assumes have no free will
• believe soc is more important that indiv
• Indivs should be free to construct own lives

Question 11

Functionalist Theory - Postmodern Criticism

Answer 11

• Assumes soc has order
• Soc + people are unpredictable
• Functionalism is a metanarrative
- presents story to create order
- soc is disordered