Functionalist view of culture

Question 1

What do they believe the main role of culture is?

Answer 1

To promote social cohesion and a harmonious society

Question 2

What did Durkheim say about culture?

Answer 2

He argues that culture is a form of social glue that brings individuals together

Question 3

Durkheim also says that individuals are socialised into norms and values of society which forms what?

Answer 3

A part of their identity

Question 4

What is Anomie?

Answer 4

A process when the norms and values of a society become too unclear so people do not know what is right and what is wrong

Question 5

Value consensus amongst individuals which control what?

Answer 5

Deviant behaviors

Question 6

What does Parson say about culture?

Answer 6

Agencies of socialisation are responsible for transmitting culture of society and help intergrating individuals into a wider society

Question 7

What does Parsons say about Primary socialisation developing cultural awareness in individuals?

Answer 7

He says it teaches children basic norms and values in society and how to act in social situations

Question 8

What does Parsons say about secondary socialisation?

Answer 8

It helps to socialise individuals to universal norms and values

Question 9

Do Functionalists believe that the role of agencies of socialisation are key in their explanation of culture?

Answer 9

Yes, they believe these agencies transmits norms and values from generation to generation however they do accept there will be social change

Question 10

What do functionalists say will happen if the process of transmitting norms and values is too rapid?

Answer 10

It will lead to anomie

Question 11

What are some criticisms of Functionalism?

Answer 11

• Conflict theories would argue that socialisation is largely just to promote dominant ideologies i.e capitalism and patriarchy
• Values consensus is difficult to maintain in modern society
• Deviation from norms and values is stigmatised yet often brings needed social change