Functionalism

1. Functionalism Talcott Parsons and Grand Theory Robert Merton and Middle Range Theory

2. Functionalism Three main elements: 1. General inter-relatedness of parts 2. Equilibrium 3. Restoration of balance

3. Talcott Parsons(1902 � 1979) 1. Life and Intellectual Influences 2. A.G.I.L. 3. Action Systems 4. Theory of Socialization 5. Theory of Action 6. Pattern Variables 7. Equilibrium 8. Evolutionary Theory of Social Change

4. A.G.I.L.(�Functional Imperatives�) Adaptation Goal Attainment Integration Latency or Pattern Maintenance

5. Action Systems 1. Behavioural Organism 2. Personality System 3. Social System 4. Cultural (Symbolic) System

6. A.G.I.L. and Action Systems A fulfilled by behavioural organism G fulfilled by personality system I fulfilled by social system L fulfilled by cultural system

7. Socialization At birth, we are behavioural organisms Individual identity formed through personality system Socialization through internalizing values from cultural system Learn roles through social system

8. Theory of Action Actors try to attain culturally-defined goals Means to attain regulated by social system Cultural system is heart of action system Legitimates the norms and �rules� Socialization = method of social control Individual variation = flexibility

9. Pattern Variables Expressive vs Instrumental Ascription Achievement Diffuseness Specificity Affectivity Neutrality Particularism Universalism Collectivity Self

10. Equilibrium Maintained when all systems function properly Depends on proper mechanisms of socializtion and social control Successful socialization =complementarity

11. Parson�s Evolutionary Theory of Social Change Step 1. Differentiation Step 2. Adaptive Upgrading Step 3. Inclusion Step 4. Value Generalization

12. Robert Merton (1910 - 2003) 1. Life and Intellectual Influences 2. Middle Range Theory 3. Functions, Dysfunctions, Non-functions 4. Manifest and Latent Functions 5. Theory of Deviance

13. Middle Range Theory Limited assumptions Specific testable hypotheses Integration of theory and research

14. Positive Functions, Dysfunctions, Non-functions Functions = positive effect for system Dysfunctions = negative effect Non-functions � can be omitted from system

15. Manifest and Latent Functions Manifest Effects are expected or intended Latent Effects are unanticipated Can be positive (latent) Or negative (dysfunction)

16. Theory of Deviance Anomie = Discontinuity between cultural goals and institutionalized means People adapt (modes of adaptation) in five different ways

17. Merton�s Anomie Goals Means Adaptation Accept Accept Conformity Accept Reject Innovation Reject Accept Ritualism Reject Reject Retreatism Substitute Substitute Rebellion

18. Criticisms of Functionalism Inadequate theory of history and social change Does not account for conflict in society Conservative bias Problem of �grand theory� Methods not adequate for proper research

19. Neofunctionalism Developed as response to criticisms No �overarching forces� like A.G.I.L. Looks at smaller patterns instead: i.e. groups, organizations Looks at both social action and order Recognition may be tension (conflict) between personality, culture and social systems which may lead to change

20. Differentiation Theory Theory of social change Theorists: Paul Colomy, Jeffrey Alexander Change occurs in all systems Progressive differentiation Can also be de-differentiation (simpler) Uneven differentiation across systems