Structural Functionalism: One Of Three Sociological Perspectives

Structural Functionalism is one of three sociological perspectives that are recognized by sociologists. It is based on the study of a society and all of its facets. It focuses on the the way societies relate to one another. It studies the relationship between different parts of society. It looks at how society functions. They believe a society has stratification, that you are what you do, basically it’s that those who have means can send their children to the right schools, or even have access to a quality education and they will be successful. That is not true for all. Structural functionalism is a macro look at society that focusses on its theories in its approach on society as well as its institutions. It analyzes the longevity and success …show more content…
It studies the relationship between different parts of society. In Davis &Moore’s
“Some Principles of Stratification”, what they discover is that things are based on stratification. Systems and societies are divided by class systems that determine one’s place in a society. If you had the training and the ability you should find a job in your class. If you have little education you take a lesser job. According to Davis and Moore, society should “distribute its members in social positions and induce them to perform the duties of these positions”, (Davis & Moore, pg.242)
In conflict theory the perspective has to do with negativity, and the conflicts in society. Take Karl Marx’s take on it in “The Communist Manifesto”. He speaks of the status of the Bourgeoisie and the Proletariats and the conflicts they have becoming and staying Bourgeoisie and shows the challenges they each have. It’s a struggle between communism and capitalism. This was a time period when the Bourgeoisie was fighting for capitalism and things. The Proletariats engaged in class struggles against the owners of the means of production. There was a lot of conflict going