Merton vs. Parson

Attribute	Merton	Parson
Functionalism	Yes	Yes
Manifest and Latent Functions	Yes	Yes
Social Structure	Yes	Yes
Role Theory	Yes	Yes
Functional Imperatives	No	Yes

Background

Robert K. Merton and Talcott Parsons were two prominent sociologists who made significant contributions to the field of sociology. Both Merton and Parsons were associated with the structural functionalist perspective, which emphasizes the ways in which society is structured to maintain stability and order. While they shared some similarities in their theoretical frameworks, there were also key differences in their approaches to understanding social phenomena.

Education and Influences

Robert K. Merton, born in 1910, was heavily influenced by the work of Emile Durkheim and Max Weber. He received his Ph.D. from Harvard University and went on to become a professor at Columbia University. Talcott Parsons, born in 1902, was also influenced by Durkheim and Weber, as well as by the work of Alfred Marshall and Vilfredo Pareto. Parsons received his Ph.D. from the University of Heidelberg and later taught at Harvard University. Both Merton and Parsons were deeply engaged with the intellectual currents of their time, drawing on a wide range of disciplines to inform their sociological theories.

Concept of Social Structure

One of the key differences between Merton and Parsons lies in their conceptualization of social structure. Merton focused on the ways in which social structures can create strain for individuals, leading to deviant behavior. His theory of anomie, for example, explores how the disjunction between cultural goals and institutionalized means can result in social strain. Parsons, on the other hand, viewed social structure as a system of interrelated parts that work together to maintain social order. His theory of social action emphasizes the ways in which individuals are socialized to conform to societal norms and values.

Functionalism vs. Conflict Theory

While both Merton and Parsons were associated with the structural functionalist perspective, they differed in their emphasis on social order. Merton's work often focused on the dysfunctions of social structures, highlighting the ways in which inequality and social strain can lead to deviant behavior. Parsons, on the other hand, emphasized the functional aspects of social structures, arguing that institutions and norms serve to maintain social equilibrium. While Merton's work can be seen as more aligned with conflict theory, Parsons' work is often associated with functionalism.

Contributions to Sociology

Both Merton and Parsons made significant contributions to the field of sociology. Merton's theory of deviance and his concept of the "strain theory" have been influential in understanding the ways in which social structures can lead to deviant behavior. Parsons' theory of social action and his concept of the "sick role" have been important in shaping our understanding of how individuals navigate social norms and expectations. While Merton's work has been more focused on the negative aspects of social structures, Parsons' work has emphasized the ways in which social structures can promote social order and stability.

Legacy and Influence

Despite their differences, both Merton and Parsons have had a lasting impact on the field of sociology. Their work continues to be studied and debated by sociologists around the world. Merton's concept of anomie and his theory of deviance have been particularly influential in criminology and sociology of deviance. Parsons' theory of social action and his emphasis on social order have been important in shaping our understanding of social institutions and norms. While their approaches may have differed, both Merton and Parsons have left a lasting legacy in the field of sociology.