Functionalism (sociology)

Functionalism in sociology and anthropology is one of the most important research orientations, which is characterized by the paradigm (and in the typology of the sociological paradigms of Burrel and Morgan), initiated in the anthropological studies of Bronisław Malinowski and Alfred Radcliffe-Brown in the twenties of the twentieth century. later mostly by Robert K. Merton, Talcott Parsons, Jeffrey Alexander and Niklas Luhmann.

This theory is based on the following assumptions:

In functional terms, society is perceived as a system of interrelated cultural elements that function in favor of the balance of the whole. In newer theoretical concepts (J. Alexander, N. Luhmann) it is assumed that social order is not necessary, rather than the conditions under which the social system can maintain an internal balance.

Talcott Parsons distinguished three phases of the evolution of society: primitive society, transitional and modern. The differences in the degree of adaptability and the form of social control, as well as the development of new value systems adapted to increasingly complex relationships, were the basis for the division. Social control over the evolution of society provides culture (writing, law).

In the opinion of functionalists, society creates a whole, which must be considered as functional unity. All systems within society are interrelated - changing any of the elements can lead to disintegration. However, each system has many subsystems that are specialized to perform certain functions.

Functional theory removes individuality from the field of view.

Functional analysis and related concepts have also proved useful for the study of small social groups or formal organizations.

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