Emile Durkheim introduced the concept of social facts, which are external social institutions, norms, and values influencing individual behavior. His analysis, particularly in studying suicide rates, underscores the importance of societal factors over individual actions. Critics, however, question the reliability of statistical data, emphasizing diverse social realities that challenge Durkheim’s views.
Functionalists believe society shapes the individual and that social order and value consensus are good.
These Functionalism revision notes bring together everything you need to know for A-level sociology exams. Here is a summary of
Merton criticises three of Parsons’ assumptions:: Indispensability, Functional Unity, and Universalism.
Sociological Perspectives influence ideas about social policies. Views range from the New Right who believe in policies to support the traditional nuclear family to Radical Feminists, some of whom argue for the abolition of the nuclear family.
A brief video I put together to help revise the Functionalist, Marxist and New Right Perspectives on Education – basically
The key ideas of the Functionalist Perspective: social structure, scientific research methods, social solidarity to prevent anomie, the organic analogy and social evolution.
Functionalists focus on the positive functions of education – creating social solidarity, teaching core values and work skills and role allocation/ meritocracy
Assess the view that the modern nuclear family is the most effective type of family unit in which to socialise
Functionalists focus on the positive functions of the nuclear family, such as secondary socialisation and the stabilisation of adult personalities.