Functionalism and Social Structure

What is the basic assumption of the functionalist approach?

• Social structure is irrelevant

• Individuals should have complete freedom

• Society needs to protect social order

• Order and integration are not important

What does functionalism focus on?

• The impact of technology on society

• Individual motivations and desires

• Micro-level interactions

• How a society holds together and operates as a whole

What is social structure?

• The physical infrastructure of a society

• The organised pattern of roles and relationships within society

• The political system of a society

• The cultural values of a society

What analogy is used to describe society as an integrated system?

• Chemical reaction

• Mechanical machine

• Computer network

• Organic analogy

What is the term used to describe a breakdown in the smooth running of the whole system?

• Dysfunction

• Consensus

• Socialisation

• Integration

What is the basis of an orderly society according to functionalists?

• A shared set of values accepted by all members

• Individual freedom and autonomy

• Conflict and competition

• Diversity and multiculturalism

How is consensus achieved in society?

• Through individual rebellion and deviance

• Through socialisation and social control

• Through economic competition

• Through political power struggles

What are the functional prerequisites or basic necessities of society?

• Societies institutions (ie families, education..)

• Individual desires and aspirations

• Technological advancements

• Globalization and international relations

How can Functionalism be criticised?

• It rejects gender inequality

• It ignores conflict in society

• It exaggerates the power of the individual

• It is a micro approach