Murdock 𝜗ৎ

What do functionalists believe society is based on?

• A value consensus - agreement - shared set of norms/ values which cooperate harmoniously - maintaining social order

• Society is a system made up of different parts + depend on each other - interdependence

What analogy do functionalists compare society to?

Organic analogy - social institutions meet the essential needs of society

What does Murdock believe the nuclear family is?

• The nuclear family is universal

• The family is the most important social institution

4 functions

Sexual, educational, economy, reproduction

Sexual (individual+ society)

Individual: sexual regulation, stable satisfaction of sex drive

Society: reduce of sexual crimes, prevents free for all

Education (individual+ society)

Individuals: basic skills, expectations, sanction, fit in

Society: skilled labourer, social order,

Economy (individual+ society)

Individual: stable home, food shelter - instrumental role - breadwinner

Society: next labour force

Reproduction (individual+ society)

Individual: providing a family - emotional support

Society: providing future work force

Who would criticise his beliefs?

Marxist Althusser:

Criticises the educational function - benefits capitalists only as children are socialised into the idea that hierarchy and inequality are inevitable

Post modernists:

His ideas are too narrow- he does not take in account other family types - diversity, choice, individualism

How would Murdock respond?

All functions reflect the value consensus of society, order, stability