Functionalism: Society as a Well-Oiled Machine
Ever wondered why society doesn't just fall apart? Functionalists reckon it's because every part of society works together like organs in a body - this is called the organic analogy.
Parsons came up with some pretty controversial ideas about gender roles. His Biological Sex Role Theory suggests men and women have different jobs based on their biology - women as caregivers, men as breadwinners. He also created the Warm Bath Theory, which claims the family acts like a relaxing bath for men after work (yes, it sounds as outdated as it is!). The theory also distinguishes between particularistic values (family-specific rules) and universal ones.
Durkheim believed sociology should be scientific and focus on social facts. He saw education as a mini-society that teaches us specialist skills and helps maintain our collective conscience - basically, shared values that keep society together. He identified two problems: anomie (when society lacks clear rules) and egoism (excessive individualism). Surprisingly, he argued crime is actually beneficial and necessary for society.
Merton wasn't buying into functionalism completely. He criticised other functionalists for being too optimistic, pointing out that not everything in society actually works perfectly. His Strain Theory explains five ways people respond to pressure: conformity, innovation, ritualism, retreatism, and rebellion.
Key Point: Functionalists see society like a human body - when all parts work together properly, everything runs smoothly.
