Functionalism

Abstract

'Functionalism' refers to a theoretical perspective in sociology that stresses cooperation and stability in society and bases its analysis upon an examination of the social structure as a whole. Society is characterized as a set of different elements of the social structure that are interconnected and indispensable, together creating a harmonious fit. Early functionalists drew an analogy between society, social structures and the workings of biological organisms such as the human body. Just like society and its social structures, organs in the body are interdependent, and the workings of any organ depends on the workings and contribution of all other organs integrated together towards the maintenance of the organism. Moreover, each organ is indispensable as it satisfies a particular need which no other organ can. Functionalism bases its model of society around the assumption of prerequisites or basic needs, understood in terms of how different parts of society help to 111eet these needs. Thus social institutions such as the family and religion are analysed and understood as a part of the social system rather than as isolated units.