The Functionalist View of Society

These flashcards cover the main concepts and critiques of the Functionalist perspective in sociology.

What is Functionalism in sociology?

A consensus approach that views society as existing separately from its individual members, shaping their behavior.

Who is the primary theorist associated with Functionalism?

Emile Durkheim.

What is anomie as defined by Durkheim?

A sense of normlessness in society that weakens social cohesion.

What does Durkheim suggest about traditional societies?

In traditional societies, people are more similar, with a strong collective consciousness and close bonds with society.

How does modern society differ from traditional society according to Durkheim?

Modern society has a complex division of labor, leading to weakened collective consciousness and a disconnection among individuals.

What analogy does Parsons use to explain society?

He compares society to the human body, suggesting both are composed of interconnected parts that serve essential functions.

What are the three links in Parsons' organic analogy?

System regulation, system needs, and functions of parts of society.

What is the value consensus in Parsons' theory?

A shared culture and common interest in a central set of norms and values that ensure social order.

Name two ways society ensures the value consensus exists according to Parsons.

Through social control and socialization.

What does Parsons' GAIL schema stand for?

Goals, Adaptation, Integration, and Latency.

How does traditional society view status as opposed to modern society according to Parsons?

In traditional societies, status is ascribed; in modern societies, status is achieved.

What did Robert Merton argue against Parsons' view of society?

Merton argued that society does not always run smoothly and that some functions may serve different groups or operate independently.

What are manifest functions according to Merton?

Intended functions that aim to do good for society.

What are latent functions as described by Merton?

Unintended functions that can have both positive and negative impacts on society.

What criticism does Marxism present against Functionalism?

Marxists see Functionalism as a conservative viewpoint that legitimizes the unequal structure of society.