Y13 - Functionalism Flashcards

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1
Q

What type of theory is Functionalism

A

A modernist structuralist consensus theory

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2
Q

Definition of Functionalism

A

Functionalism regards as society as a stable, harmonious integrated social system, with social order & cohesion maintained by a fundamental value consensus

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3
Q

The Organic Analogy

A

Society is viewed as the human body; functioning together to work harmoniously (Parsons)

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4
Q

Functional Prerequisite

A

Society must satisfy 4 requirementents:

  • Goal Attainment
  • Integration
  • Adaptation
  • Latency
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5
Q

Adaptation

A

Society must be able to adapt and evolve

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6
Q

Integration

A

Society must be regulated & controlled using legal systems

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7
Q

Goal Attainment

A

Society must have goals and aspirations

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8
Q

Latency

A

Must ensure society has conformity (Moral commitment)

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9
Q

Emile Durkheim

A
  • Argued value consensus holds society from falling apart. (Social Order)
  • Places major emphasis on institutions to use the socialisation process to create a ‘collective conscience’
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10
Q

Social Differentiation

A

Institutions & roles become more specialised as society adapts & evolves

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11
Q

Merton

A
  • Criticises Parsons
  • Argued that dysfunction in society causes imperfections
  • Suggests that there are manifest functions & latency functions
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12
Q

Manifest Function

A
  • The intended function (e.g. A hospital has the MANIFEST function of providing healthcare)
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13
Q

Latent Function

A
  • The non-intended (e.g. A hospital has a LATENT function of helping teachers find partners)
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14
Q

Why does Durkheim place major emphasis on the socialisation process

A

He had a pessimistic view of humanity, he believed that it creates a “collective conscience”

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15
Q

Advantage of Functionalism

A
  • Explains social order and stability

- Produces a general theory of the workings of society

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16
Q

Disadvantages of Functionalism

A
  • It over-emphasis on harmony and value consensus
  • Tries to explain everything from a single perspective
  • Tends to be very conservative and ignorant of recent change
17
Q

Pessimistic

A

Tending to see the worst aspect of things or believe that the worst will happen.

18
Q

Examples of Collective Consciousness

A
  • Gender norms concerning how people dress and act.

- Laws that socialize people into what is “right and wrong” in their society.