Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the main focus of functionalism?
What is the main focus of functionalism?
- The impact of guerrilla movements on political systems
- The importance of economy for any society (correct)
- The control of the economy by the economic elite
- The role of interest groups in shaping policy
What led to the development of structural-functionalism?
What led to the development of structural-functionalism?
- The failure of Marxism in Eastern Europe
- The Cold War rivalry between the US and USSR
- The need for a new approach to study newly independent countries (correct)
- The rise of authoritarian regimes in Africa
What do structural functionalists aim to find out about a structure?
What do structural functionalists aim to find out about a structure?
- What it actually does in a political system (correct)
- How it relates to other structures in the system
- What it is supposed to do in a political system
- How it affects the economy of a country
What is a key component of the political system according to the structural-functional approach?
What is a key component of the political system according to the structural-functional approach?
What is the basis of comparison for political systems according to structural functionalism?
What is the basis of comparison for political systems according to structural functionalism?
Who argued that certain political functions exist in all political systems?
Who argued that certain political functions exist in all political systems?
What do individual institutions do in the context of structural functionalism?
What do individual institutions do in the context of structural functionalism?
What is a major limitation of structural functionalism?
What is a major limitation of structural functionalism?
What is the primary method of study used in structural functionalism?
What is the primary method of study used in structural functionalism?
What is a consequence of one group disagreeing with the direction of society in structural functionalism?
What is a consequence of one group disagreeing with the direction of society in structural functionalism?
What is the assumption about motivation in structural functionalism?
What is the assumption about motivation in structural functionalism?
What is the purpose of the circular flow of money image in the context of structural functionalism?
What is the purpose of the circular flow of money image in the context of structural functionalism?
Study Notes
Functionalism
- Focuses on how different parts of society work together to create a stable social system
- Rooted in the idea of society as an organism where each part contributes to the whole
Development of Structural-Functionalism
- Emerged from the need to understand social order and stability
- Influenced by the work of Émile Durkheim and Talcott Parsons
Aims of Structural-Functionalism
- Understand the functions of different structures in society
- Identify the roles and contributions of each structure to the overall stability of the social system
Political System: Key Component
- Power is essential for maintaining social order and stability in the political system
Basis of Comparison for Political Systems
- Structural functionalism compares different political systems based on the functions they perform
All Political Systems Share Common Functions
- Talcott Parsons argued that all political systems perform essential functions such as providing law and order, defense, and distribution of resources
Role of Institutions in Structural Functionalism
- Each institution plays a vital role in fulfilling the needs of society, ensuring its stability and smooth functioning
Limitation of Structural Functionalism
- Oversimplifies social reality by assuming that every element contributes positively to society
- Misses the complexities and conflicts that often arise from social inequalities and power dynamics
Method of Study
- Uses observation and analysis of social phenomena
- Seeks to understand how societies maintain equilibrium and stability
Disagreement with Society's Direction
- When groups disagree with the direction of society, conflict emerges which challenges the stability of the social system
Assumptions on Motivation
- Assumes that people are inherently motivated to maintain societal stability and order
- It minimizes the role of individual agency and conflict in shaping social dynamics
Purpose of "Circular Flow of Money" Image
- Demonstrates the interconnectedness of various economic actors and institutions
- Illustrates how money flows through the system, contributing to economic growth and stability
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Description
Understand the concept of structural functionalism in sociology, where individual institutions work together to achieve a common goal. Learn how social bonds are crucial for its success and the limitations of this approach.
