Functionalism

• What type of theory is Functionalism?

  Macro, structural theory
• How does Functionalism view society?

  As based on agreement among its members
• What does Functionalism believe about knowledge of society?

  It can be used to improve society
• What role do educational systems play in Functionalism?

  They socialize individuals into norms and values
• Who claimed that the family is universal and inevitable?

  Murdock
• What is one main function of the family according to Functionalism?

  Primary socialization of children
• What role does religion play in society according to Functionalism?

  It integrates people and provides support
• Who are the neo-functionalists mentioned in the study material?

  Bellah
• What does Durkheim believe about crime and deviance?

  It can clarify acceptable behavior boundaries
• What analogy does Parsons use to describe society?

  Organic analogy
• How does Functionalism view the parts of society?

  As interrelated and interdependent
• What are the basic needs of the social system according to Functionalism?

  Members must be socialized for survival
• What happens if one part of the social system becomes dysfunctional?

  It affects all other aspects of society
• What is a strength of Functionalism?

  It recognizes the structural nature of society
• What is the function of any part of the social system according to Functionalism?

  To meet the system's needs for survival
• What do external critics argue about Functionalism's teleological view?

  It explains existence based on effects
• What is a value consensus in Functionalism?

  A shared agreement of norms and values
• How does value consensus maintain social order?

  It creates a stable and harmonious society
• What are the two mechanisms Parsons identifies for ensuring conformity?

  Socialization and social control
• What is anomie according to Functionalism?

  A breakdown of social norms and values
• What do Postmodernists argue about Functionalism's value consensus?

  It assumes society is stable and orderly
• What is the view of Functionalism on social change?

  It is a gradual and evolutionary process
• What does structural differentiation refer to?

  Development of specialized institutions
• How do conflict theories critique Functionalism's view of social change?

  It fails to explain conflict and sudden change
• What do Marxists argue about society's nature?

  It is based on exploitation and conflict
• How do Marxists view shared values in society?

  As imposed by the dominant class
• What is the role of religion according to Marxists?

  To maintain false class consciousness
• How does Merton critique Parsons' system theory?

  Not all parts are tightly integrated
• What does Merton mean by 'functional alternatives'?

  Other structures can fulfill social functions
• What research methods do Functionalists prefer?

  Quantitative, positivist approaches
• Why is Functionalism criticized for being unscientific?

  It cannot be falsified
• What is the conclusion about Functionalism's insights into society?

  It is ideologically driven and reductionist
• What do Postmodernists claim about Functionalism's meta-narrative?

  It is totalizing and outdated