Topic 5: Functionalism

What are the Functionalist theories studied in this set?

Parsons:

• Organic analogy

• System needs

• Value consensus

Merton:

• Internal critiques of Functionalism

How does society meets its systems needs? (Parsons)

Instrumental (must be met):

• Adaptation: Material needs met through economic sub-systems

• Goal attainment: Goals set/resources provided through political sub-systems

Emotional expressive (desired):

• Integration: Societal integration + shared values pushed through religion/ education/media sub-sections

• Latency: Once other 3 have been met, kinship sub-sections (community/family networks) manage tension to stop them falling apart

How can societies functions shift to meet a change in the systems needs? (Parsons)

Functional Fit:

• Modern society demands geographical mobility to work

• Thus values shifted emphasises individualism above collectivism, as cooperation within tight knit communities is no longer needed, and geographical mobility is made easier when people put individual self-interest above family commitments

What is Parsons theory of society as based on consensus and cooperation, like an organism?

3 similarities between society and a biological organism:

• System: Both self-supporting systems of interdependent parts, organs in body, institutions in society

• System needs: Both have needs that cause it to die if not met (eg nutrients in body, value consensus in society)

• Functions: They both carry out function to meet said needs (eg nutrients gained through digestion, value consensus through socialistion)

Why does society need value consensus? (Parsons)

• Provides framework for cooperation, laying down rules about how to behave, what to expect

• Ensures social order, wouldn`t be possible if people had differing values of whats acceptable

How do we develop a value consensus? (Parsons)

• Socialisation: Individuals taught to want to do what is needed to be done. The norms and values are “internalised”

• Social control: Positive rewards for conformity and negative ones are punished

What are Mertons internal critiques of Functionalism?

Universal functionalism:

• Parsons assumes that institutions universally benefit all, however this lacks nuance, institutions can be both functional for some an dysfunctional for others

• eg education function for most students, however is dysfunctional for those with non-trad needs) (links to conflict criticism)

What are external critiques of Functionalism?

Society is not based on consensus, eg 600m face food insecurity globally, but 40% of food in the UK is thrown away