Functionalism vs. Structural-Functionalism

Attribute	Functionalism	Structural-Functionalism
Focus	Individual level	Social system level
Approach	Macro-level	Macro-level
Function	Emphasizes individual functions	Emphasizes social functions
Origin	Rooted in psychology	Rooted in sociology
Founder	William James	Émile Durkheim

Introduction

Functionalism and Structural-Functionalism are two major theoretical perspectives in sociology that focus on the ways in which society functions and maintains stability. While they share some similarities, they also have distinct differences in terms of their key concepts and approaches to understanding society.

Functionalism

Functionalism, also known as structural functionalism, is a theoretical perspective that views society as a complex system of interconnected parts that work together to maintain social order and stability. According to functionalists, each part of society has a specific function that contributes to the overall functioning of the system. This perspective emphasizes the importance of social institutions, such as family, education, and religion, in maintaining social cohesion and stability.

Functionalists believe that society is like a living organism, with each part playing a vital role in ensuring the smooth functioning of the whole. They argue that social institutions serve specific functions that are necessary for the survival of society as a whole. For example, the family institution provides socialization and emotional support, while the education system imparts knowledge and skills to the younger generation.

One of the key concepts in functionalism is the idea of social equilibrium, which refers to the state of balance and harmony in society. Functionalists believe that social institutions work together to maintain this equilibrium by fulfilling their respective functions. When there is a disruption in one part of society, other parts will adjust to restore balance and stability.

Functionalism has been criticized for its tendency to focus on the positive aspects of society and overlook issues of conflict and inequality. Critics argue that functionalism fails to account for the ways in which power dynamics and social inequalities shape society. Additionally, functionalism has been criticized for its conservative approach to social change, as it tends to emphasize the importance of maintaining the status quo.

In summary, functionalism is a theoretical perspective that views society as a complex system of interconnected parts that work together to maintain social order and stability. It emphasizes the importance of social institutions in maintaining social cohesion and stability, and it focuses on the positive functions that these institutions serve in society.

Structural-Functionalism

Structural-Functionalism is a specific form of functionalism that focuses on the ways in which social structures contribute to the functioning of society. This perspective emphasizes the interconnectedness of social institutions and the ways in which they work together to maintain social order and stability. Structural-functionalists argue that social structures are essential for understanding how society operates.

One of the key concepts in structural-functionalism is the idea of social integration, which refers to the degree to which individuals are connected to each other and to society as a whole. Structural-functionalists believe that social integration is necessary for maintaining social cohesion and stability. They argue that social structures, such as norms, values, and institutions, play a crucial role in promoting social integration.

Structural-functionalism also emphasizes the importance of social functions, which are the consequences of social structures that contribute to the maintenance of society. These functions can be manifest (intended) or latent (unintended), and they help to ensure the smooth functioning of society. For example, the manifest function of the education system is to impart knowledge and skills, while its latent function may be to socialize students into the values of society.

Structural-functionalism has been criticized for its tendency to focus on the stability and order of society while neglecting issues of conflict and inequality. Critics argue that this perspective fails to account for the ways in which power dynamics and social inequalities shape society. Additionally, structural-functionalism has been criticized for its deterministic view of social change, as it tends to emphasize the importance of maintaining the existing social structures.

In summary, structural-functionalism is a specific form of functionalism that focuses on the ways in which social structures contribute to the functioning of society. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of social institutions and the importance of social integration in maintaining social cohesion and stability.

Conclusion

Functionalism and Structural-Functionalism are two major theoretical perspectives in sociology that offer valuable insights into the ways in which society functions and maintains stability. While they share some similarities, such as their emphasis on social institutions and social order, they also have distinct differences in terms of their key concepts and approaches to understanding society. Both perspectives have been influential in shaping sociological theory and research, and they continue to be relevant in the study of society today.