Socio - Functionalism

What type of theory is functionalism?

A structural consensus theory focused on social order and stability.

How does functionalism view society?

As a system of interconnected parts that work together to maintain stability.

What analogy does functionalism use for society?

Society is like an organism, with each institution acting like an organ.

What does it mean that institutions are interdependent in functionalism?

Institutions depend on and affect each other.

What happens if one part of society fails or changes, according to functionalism?

Other parts adapt to restore balance and stability.

What are examples of social institutions according to functionalism?

Family, education, religion, government, economy, and media.

Why do institutions exist according to functionalism?

Because they perform important functions needed by society.

What happens if an institution no longer performs a useful function?

It will eventually disappear.

What happens when society develops new needs?

New institutions may develop to meet them.

What three key concepts does functionalism emphasize?

Consensus, order, and stability.

What provides the foundation of society according to functionalism?

Shared norms and values.

Why is socialization important to functionalists?

It teaches shared norms and values, maintaining social order.

Which type of socialization is especially important to functionalists?

Primary socialization, particularly within the family.

How does deviance or social disorganization affect society according to functionalism?

It disrupts stability, forcing society to adapt and potentially causing social change.

Why was functionalism important to sociology?

It was the first major grand theory of society.

What does functionalism show about social institutions?

That institutions are interconnected and affect one another.

What are manifest functions?

The intended and recognized consequences of an institution or social action.

What are latent functions?

The unintended or less obvious consequences of an institution or social action.

What does functionalism explain well?

The functions of institutions and rituals and how socialization maintains order.

Why is functionalism criticized for overemphasizing harmony?

It can ignore conflict and inequality within society.

Why is functionalism criticized for explaining social change poorly?

It often sees change as slow and evolutionary, despite some social change being rapid.

Why is functionalism considered conservative?

It tends to defend the status quo and existing institutions.

Why is functionalism described as teleological?

It explains institutions by their current function, rather than how they originally developed.

How does functionalism differ from conflict theories?

Functionalism emphasizes consensus and stability, whereas conflict theories emphasize inequality and power struggles.