Social Institutions: Functionalism

Sociological Theory: Functionalism

Functionalism, also known as functional analysis, is a theory that sees society as a complex system whose parts work together to promote solidarity and stability. (Polger). Auguste Comte, Herbert Spencer, and Emile Durkheim believed functionalism viewed society as a living organism. Robert Merton disagreed with this statement and believed society's composed parts had specific functions, which referred to people's actions. He believed this term helped keep society as a balanced social group. There are two types of functions; manifest and latent, or intended and unintended (Henslin). This theory views society as several small functions or dysfunctions working together, as one unit.

This theory makes sense in our society. Each person in our society has a specific job to help further our society as a whole, and with everyone working together we can grow as a society. For example, one man who works in a factory may not seem that important or vital to some people, but if he does not do his job it would cause a chain reaction of dysfunctional events. If he does not work he can not provide for his family, pay his bills, or send his children to school. The family then goes on welfare, electricity and plumbing are shut off, and his children are not being educated to take over as a part of the new generation. They could eventually end up on the streets and be getting in trouble with the law to find money for food. This one person adds to society but without him society has to work extra to support him and his family. Every person has a specific part and role in society and every role is vital and important. All working functions affect the entire society as a whole.