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Questions and Answers
What does the structural-functionalist perspective emphasize?
What does the structural-functionalist perspective emphasize?
The way in which parts of a society are structured to maintain its stability.
What is necessary for the functionalist perspective to work correctly?
What is necessary for the functionalist perspective to work correctly?
All parts must be connected and relate in some way.
What does the functionalist perspective examine?
What does the functionalist perspective examine?
The component parts of society (institutions) and how they relate to each other.
If there is a glitch in one category it will make it ______.
If there is a glitch in one category it will make it ______.
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What indicates a dysfunctional social context?
What indicates a dysfunctional social context?
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What are key words associated with the functionalist perspective at the macro level?
What are key words associated with the functionalist perspective at the macro level?
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What are manifest functions?
What are manifest functions?
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What are latent functions?
What are latent functions?
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What are institutions in the context of sociology?
What are institutions in the context of sociology?
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What are the four characteristics of institutions?
What are the four characteristics of institutions?
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What happens when you change the time of school?
What happens when you change the time of school?
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Give an example of a manifest function.
Give an example of a manifest function.
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What is a manifest function of the economy?
What is a manifest function of the economy?
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Study Notes
Structural-Functionalist Perspective
- Emphasizes the structural arrangement of society to maintain stability.
- All components of society must be interconnected for proper functioning.
Interconnectedness and Functionality
- Each part of society must relate to others, similar to the functioning of a clock.
- A glitch in one area can lead to overall dysfunction within the society.
Focus of the Functionalist Perspective
- Analyzes how various institutions (component parts) interact and contribute to societal structure and function.
Dysfunction in Society
- Social context becomes dysfunctional if component parts threaten stability through their arrangement.
Key Characteristics of Functionalism
- Macro level focus includes terms like stability, unity, consensus, and harmony.
- Indicates a conservative view of social order and agreement.
Manifest Functions
- Functions that are open, stated, and consciously recognized; intended consequences of societal aspects.
- Example: Education serves to transmit knowledge, but also delays entry into the workforce.
Latent Functions
- Functions that are unconscious, unintended, and may reflect hidden purposes of institutions.
- Example: Keeping children in school to prevent idle behavior.
Understanding Institutions
- Defined as clusters of social structures fulfilling fundamental societal needs and embodying stable values.
Characteristics of Institutions
- Tend to resist change, show interdependence, change collectively, and are often sites of significant social problems.
Impact of Changing Institutional Structures
- Altering school schedules can disrupt various interconnected aspects such as traffic flow and local businesses.
Examples of Manifest Functions
- Religion serves to share community values and promote social unity; however, it can also prompt social issues like war and harassment.
- The economy's manifest function is to produce and distribute goods; conversely, it can lead to corruption and job instability.
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Description
This quiz features flashcards that explore the structural-functionalist perspective in sociology. It defines key terms and concepts essential for understanding how societal components work together to maintain stability. Perfect for students looking to enhance their grasp of functionalist theory.
