01:920:314 Lecture Notes - Lecture 2: Social Fact, Human Nature, Anomie
16 Sep 2016
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Document Summary
Structural functionalism (or simply functionalism ) is a perspective that focuses on the structures of society and their functional significance for other structures. It focuses on how social structures, through interdependence, maintain cohesion and the social order. Structures involve patterned social interaction and persistent social relations. Functions involve the consequences or uses of a particular structure. Although not characteristic of all structural functionalists, many tend to take a macroscopic view by focusing on the social system as a whole . viewing all components of systems as contributing positively to its continued operation. Key theorists (classical and contemporary): hobbes (england 1588-1679) Social facts are empirical and can be studied empirically. Two types of social facts: material (for ex. , suicide rates, homelessness, family structures, judicial system , nonmaterial (the collective consciousness or overall mindset of a people or community, including values, shared feelings, and ideals). These nonmaterial aspects exert a strong influence on keeping the society integrated.
