Theory and Methods: Functionalism

Functionalism

Value Consensus + Specialised Division of Labour = Social Order

Value Consensus: The idea that everyone in society has the same norms and values.

Specialised Division of Labour: The idea that everyone within society has a status they need to fulfil.

Parsons: Argues that 'society is like a biological organism in three ways:

1. Inter-related parts: Each part is dependant on the others.
2. Functional Pre-requisites: Each part has basic needs that must be fulfilled.
3. Structural Differentiation: If something no longer works then it is replaced.

Functional Pre-requisites of society:

Adaptation: Each member of society must be provided with their basic needs.

Goal Attainment: In order to evolve, society needs goals and methods of achieving them.

Integration: Each part of the social system needs to work together.

Latency: The mechanisms within society that enable individuals to do their job.

Pattern Variables:

Traditional Societies		Modern Societies
Ascription: People achieve status through birth.	Status	Achievement: People achieve status based on performance.
Diffuseness: Each relationship is broad and has many uses.	Relationships	Specificity: Each relationship has only one purpose.
Particularism: Norms and values and different depending on who they apply to.	Standards	Universalism: One set of norms and values apply to everyone.
Affectivity: Decisions are based on emotions.	Decisions	Affective Neutrality: Decisions are made objectively without the influence of emotions.
Collective Orientation: People do things for the sake of society.	Orientation	Self Orientation: Each individual pursues their own self interests.