functionalists

Question 1

who talks about organic analogy

Answer 1

parsons

Question 2

explain organic analogy (parsons) and his three examples

Answer 2

similarities between society and biological organism
- system
- system needs
- funcions

Question 3

what does parsons mean by system (organic analogy)

Answer 3

organisms and society both self regulating systems that fit together in fixed ways
eg. body there are cells and society there are institutions such as govt

Question 4

what does parsons mean by system needs (organic analogy)

Answer 4

organisms have needs such as nutrition - if not met; die
- social systems have basic needs such as adequate socialisation - maintained for social order and survival

Question 5

what does parsons mean by functions (organic analogy)

Answer 5

function for any system is based upon contribution it makes to meeting the system needs which ensures survival

Question 6

who talks about value consensus and social order

Answer 6

parsons

Question 7

explain value consensus and social order (parsons)

+ example

Answer 7

function of value consensus is social order due to framework of behaviour and shared norms and values
- eg, we need everyones material needs met so we make a general value about going to work

Question 8

what are the two basic mechanisms for ensuring individuals conform to shared norms and meet systems needs

Answer 8

socialisation

social control (sanctions etc)

Question 9

parsons 4 system needs

Answer 9

adaption
goal attainment
integration
latency

Question 10

what institution works through goal attainment

Answer 10

parliament - political sub system to allectate resources to achieve set goals

Question 11

what does parsons mean by latency (system needs)

+ example

Answer 11

processses that maintain society over time
- pattern maintanence - socialising individuals to go on performing roles society requires

Question 12

what does parsons mean by adaption (system needs)

Answer 12

the ability of a social system to adjust and respond to its external environment

• eg. economic institutions adjusting to technology changes to ensure production. altering stratgey to adapt with customers changing views

Question 13

what does parsons mean by integration (system needs)

Answer 13

• estb of social norms, values, and institutions that promote solidarity and cooperation among its members.

eg. role of the sub-system of religion, education and media.

Question 14

what two types of society does parsons identify

Answer 14

traditional and modern

Question 15

diff between parsons modern and traditional society

Answer 15

modern - individual self interest and achieved status with universalisitc standards

traditional - collective interests first, ascribied and particularistsic stantads (diff laws for nobles and commoners)

Question 16

how does merton, a func, critique parsons

3

Answer 16

• assumes that all parts of society are tightly integrated in unity but theres so many parts - how can structure of banking link to rules of netball
• assumes society performs a positive function overall
• assumes society is in its best form - what is primary socialisation is better in single parent