Structural-functionalism views society as a complex system of interconnected parts that work together to maintain stability. It focuses on identifying the functions that social institutions serve and emphasizes the importance of social order and balance. The theory analyzes how different elements of society are interdependent and contribute to its functioning. It was developed in the late 19th century by Émile Durkheim and expanded by later theorists like Malinowski, Radcliffe-Brown, and Robert Merton. While it provides insights into social order, it can oversimplify social issues and ignore power dynamics. Alternative perspectives like conflict theory criticize its focus on stability over change.

1. Structural - Functionalism
Explore the fascinating world of Structural-Functionalism, a sociological
theory that analyzes how society functions as a complex system.
by Christian Villamartin

2. Basic Definition
1 Interconnected
Elements 🌐
Structural-Functionalism
views society as a set of
interconnected parts that
work together to maintain
social stability.
2 Social Functions ⚙️
It focuses on identifying
the functions that different
social institutions serve in
society.
3 Order and Balance
⚖️
Structural-Functionalism
highlights the importance
of social order and
balance in maintaining a
cohesive society.

3. Origins and Development
1
Émile Durkheim
Durkheim established the foundations of
structural-functionalism in his seminal
work "The Division of Labor in Society"
(1893).
2 Functionalism in Anthropology
British anthropologists Malinowski and
Radcliffe-Brown expanded on
Durkheim's ideas, applying them to the
study of cultures and societies.
3
Robert Merton
Merton further developed structural-
functionalism in the mid-20th century,
introducing the concepts of manifest and
latent functions.

4. Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths 🌟
Provides a holistic understanding of society,
emphasizes social order and stability, and
highlights the interconnectedness of social
institutions.
Weaknesses 🌱
Can oversimplify complex social phenomena,
tends to focus on the status quo, and may
ignore power dynamics and inequalities.

5. Critiques and Alternative Perspectives
1 Conflict Theory 🔥
Conflict theory argues that society is
characterized by conflicts and power
struggles. It emphasizes social
inequalities and focuses on social
change.
2 Social Constructionism 🏗️
Social constructionism highlights the
role of language, culture, and social
interactions in shaping social reality.
3 Social Exchange Theory 💱
Social exchange theory examines social interactions and relationships based on the
exchange of resources, emphasizing rational decision-making.

6. Applications in Contemporary Society
Workplace Dynamics
Structural-functionalism helps
analyze the functioning and roles
of individuals and groups within
organizations.
Urban Planning
Applying structural-functionalism
in urban planning aids in
understanding how different
elements contribute to a well-
functioning city.
Family Dynamics
Examining family structures and
roles through a structural-
functional lens illuminates the
functions and interdependencies
within a household.

7. Conclusion
Structural-Functionalism provides valuable insights into the complex
mechanisms that uphold social order and stability in contemporary society. It
offers a holistic framework for understanding the interconnectedness of social
systems and functions.