Functionalism: Theories and Key Figures

What does functionalism primarily focus on in society?

Which social institution is NOT considered a part of society's interrelated structure in functionalism?

According to Émile Durkheim's perspective, what is essential for the stability of society?

What term did Alfred Radcliffe-Brown use to explain the function of recurrent activities in society?

How does Robert Merton distinguish between manifest and latent functions?

What concept describes the state where all parts of society work together harmoniously?

What did Durkheim emphasize as necessary for sociologists studying society?

What function do laws serve within a society according to the functionalist perspective?

Functionalism: A Structural-Functional Theory

Functionalism views society as interconnected parts working to meet individual needs.
It draws parallels between society and the human body, where parts cooperate for overall function.
Key figures include Herbert Spencer, Émile Durkheim, Alfred Radcliffe-Brown, and Robert Merton.

Herbert Spencer's Influence

Spencer saw society's various parts (social institutions like government, education, family) working together for societal function, akin to bodily organ function.

Émile Durkheim's Contributions

Durkheim saw society as an interconnected, interdependent system maintaining stability.
Society is held together by shared values, symbols, and languages.
Sociologists should analyze social facts (laws, customs, etc.) to understand society, going beyond individual actions.

Radcliffe-Brown's Perspective

Radcliffe-Brown defined function as a recurrent activity's contribution to social stability and continuity.

Dynamic Equilibrium

In healthy societies, all parts work together to maintain equilibrium (a stable state).

Merton's Manifest and Latent Functions

Manifest functions are intended (e.g., education gaining knowledge, career preparation).
Latent functions are unintended (e.g., education meeting people, forming social hierarchies).
Latent functions can be positive, neutral, or negative.
Dysfunctions are social processes with undesirable consequences for society (e.g., truancy, dropping out of college).

Explore the structural-functional theory of functionalism, examining how society operates as interconnected parts working toward individual needs. Learn about key contributors like Herbert Spencer, Émile Durkheim, and Alfred Radcliffe-Brown, and their perspectives on societal stability and functions.