Functionalism

• • Everything has a function including crime, education, family, etc...
  • Society is like the human body/organic analogy
  • A consensus theory which means that society shares norms and values and this is social cohesion
  • It is a macro theory
  • It focuses on the positive rather than negative functions that different structures perform in society
  • Overlooks the negative aspects of things like crime and religion
  • Society is made up of different parts that fit together to ensure societies survival
  • Society is based on value consensus
• Strengths:

  • Keeps society working together
  • Everything has a function
  • Consensus theory
  • Social cohesion


  Weaknesses:

  • Functionalism overlooks negative functions such as crime and religion
  • Macro theory
  • Not everything fits together perfectly
  • Theory is too positive
  • Some people say it is outdated - society has changed from say 100 years ago
• Is it relevant?

  Functionalism is relevant in society today as society still needs all of the institutions to keep society running smoothly and ensure society's survival. Even crime is needed for functionalism as it helps people to learn what is right and wrong and the norms and values. Education is needed to help with family which helps with economy.