Functionalism

Overview 

- A structural theory which looks at society as a whole. 

- Sees society as a human body (Social institutions as organs and all function together) 

- Assumes society works well

- Uses positivist research (Scientific) 

- Uses quantitative data (Gov statistics) 

Weaknesses 

- Suggests that this is the best possible society (no change) 

- Lacks explanation on how and why society changes

- Overlooks major inequalities…