functionalism

what was durkheim’s basic view of society?

• rapid social change undermines previous norms without creating new ones (BAD)

• shifted from traditional society to modern industrial society - leads to anomie (breakdown of social order)

how does durkheim define features of traditional society?

• mechanical solidarity - integration of members with common values and beliefs

• collective conscience - unification of values, knowing and abiding by values/norms

how does durkheim define features of modern society?

• complex division of labour - promotes differences between groups, undermining social solidarity

• greater freedom for individuals (bad)

how does durkheim conceptualise society?

• exists externally to individuals

• made up of social facts that shape human behaviour to meet society’s needs

  • laws, customs, moral norms, language, religion, economic systems

  • material social facts - includes physical objects e.g. flags that carry cultural meanings

what were parsons’ key ideas?

• organic analogy

• value consensus

• AGIL schema