5 Questions
The Functionalist perspective on the family was developed by which anthropologist?
G. MURDOCK
According to Murdock's definition, what are the three characteristics of a family?
common residence, economic cooperation, reproduction
What is the primary responsibility of the family according to Murdock?
primary socialisation
Why is socialisation important for the development of culture?
Without socialisation there would be no culture
What are the two functions of the family related to food and shelter?
providing food and shelter
Study Notes
Functionalist Perspective on the Family
G. Murdock's Definition (1949)
- Murdock, an American anthropologist, defines the family as a social group characterized by:
- Common residence
- Economic cooperation
- Reproduction
- Adults of both sexes, with at least two maintaining a socially approved sexual relationship
- One or more children
Key Features of Murdock's Definition
- Based on a sample of 250 societies, including:
- Hunting and gathering bands
- Small-scale farming societies
- Despite variations in family forms, Murdock argues that each contains a basic nucleus
Functions of the Family
Educational
- The family is largely responsible for primary socialization
- Socialization is essential for the transmission of culture
- Without a shared culture, there would be no consensus about societal norms and values
Economic
- The family provides:
- Food
- Shelter
- In many societies, the family is a unit of economic cooperation
Test your knowledge on the Functionalist perspective on the family with this quiz. Explore G. Murdock's views on the family as a social group and its function for both the individual and society. Discover the key elements of the family according to Murdock's book "Social Structure" and their importance in maintaining a socially approved structure.
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