Sociology Functionalism

Sociology The founder of Functionalism is Talcott Parsons – a U.S. sociologist. Parsons argued that the crucial feature of societies, as of biological organisms, is homeostasis (maintaining a stable state), and that their parts can be understood only in terms of the whole.

Sociology Parson’s argued that society should be viewed similarly to a human body Each part of the body is vital Take away one part and other parts will suffer…ultimately the body will die Class, stratification, education etc…are vital if society is to survive.

Sociology Parsons’ argued that society has certain basic needs. Parsons called these needs ‘functional prerequisites’ Functional prerequisites include order and stability Order, stability and cooperation are essential for the operation of society.

Sociology Class and stratification are central to order and stability Order, stability and cooperation are based on a ‘value consensus’ – shared values …what is good and worthwhile in society Stratification merely ranks individual efforts.

Sociology Those who perform well/successfully in terms of society’s values will reap the benefits (Thatcherism) Parson’s argued that American society valued individual achievement, efficiency, productive activity Sometimes referred to as the ‘American Dream’.

Sociology Those who perform well/successfully in terms of society’s values will reap the benefits (Thatcherism) Parson’s argued that American society valued individual achievement, efficiency, productive activity Sometimes referred to as the ‘American Dream’.

Sociology There is a general belief in society that stratification is just, right and proper Parsons argues that this is an expression of shared values Functionalists argue that the class someone is born into should not affect their life chances If individuals make full use of opportunities in life…they can redress them.

Sociology Functionalists also justify inequality – people are rewarded for the different tasks they carry out Those who carry out skilled or more ‘worthy’ jobs should be rewarded Inequality gives the lower classes something to aim for If you want to study hard, better yourself…there must be some kind of economic reward for doing so.

Summary - Functionalism Functional Prerequisites Value Consensus Society is similar to biology – it is organic in nature Society requires stability, order, co- operation Social institutions important for socialisation Inequality can be justified