Theories of Sociology: Functionalism

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What is the Functionalist argument?
Society is made up of social institutions which are inter-related and inter-dependent. They must socialise children into norms and values. The basic needs of a society are called functional prerequisites.
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How does Durkheim view threats to social order?
Durkheim was aware societies do not always function smoothly but disputes can be managed peacefully by professional organisations and teaching moral values
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What does Parsons argue?
The main aim of sociology is to understand the patterns in society that lead to social equilibrium. Social equilibrium is maintained through socialisation and social order
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What is the AGIL framwork?
Adaption: SI's must give us skills to survive. Goal Attainment: SI's should give us goals to aim for. Integration: SI's have to resolve conflict situations. Latency: SI's need to bring stability and order
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What is Parson's view of social change?
Social change often takes place without radical change (moving equilibrium). Social change in a system is social evolution e.g. industrialisation. As society evolves, parts of it become more specialised.
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What does Merton argue?
Functionalism is too optimistic and naive. Some institutions are negative or have a non-function
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How does Merton distinguish between manifest and latent?
Manifest: Obvious, intended function (profane). Latent: Unintentional function that creates social solidarity (sacred)
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How has functionalism impacted the New Right?
Murray believes the government should reduce welfare benefits as this leads to more problems in society. The New Right have a big influence in the family, education, religion and crime and deviance and believes in the importance of norms and values
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In what way is Functionalism overly deterministic?
Social action theorists reject the idea of socialisation and argue humans have free will in their choices and actions
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Why has Functionalism been criticised for not questioning whose values are being shared?
Gouldner suggests Functionalists ignore the existence of power in society and that some people are more able to shape society than others e.g. the bourgeoisie. It also ignores conflict of interests and class and gender based inequalities
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How does Durkheim view threats to social order?

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Durkheim was aware societies do not always function smoothly but disputes can be managed peacefully by professional organisations and teaching moral values

Card 3

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What does Parsons argue?

Back

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Card 4

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What is the AGIL framwork?

Back

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Card 5

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What is Parson's view of social change?

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