100% (1)
Pages:
2 pages/≈550 words
Sources:
1
Style:
APA
Subject:
Social Sciences
Type:
Essay
Language:
English (U.S.)
Document:
MS Word
Date:
Total cost:
$ 8.64
Topic:

Parsons' theory of structural functionalism

Essay Instructions:

Hi, for this essay is chapter seven, Talcott Parsons sought to explain how social order is possible when human beings are naturally inclined toward "optimization of gratification" (acting selfishly). How well does Parsons' theory of structural functionalism solve the problem of social order? Be sure in your essay, while answering this question, you: ● Analyze Parsons' conceptualization of the action system. ● Evaluate Parsons' action system scheme as an explanation of social order.

Essay Sample Content Preview:

Parsons' theory of structural functionalism
Name:
University:
Course Title:
Instructor:
Date:
Parsons' Theory of Structural Functionalism
Parson developed an action system that sought to explain how order in the society could be achieved. Parson indicated that social order was possible if human beings were naturally inclined to act selfishly. This paper will show how the problem of social order would be solved using the structural functionalism theory postulated by Parson. Parsons action system is developed in light of four characteristics (functional imperatives) that he believed were necessary for all systems to exist. These are adaptation (A), goal attainment (G), integration (I) and latency (L) or pattern maintenance summarized as AGIL (Ritzer, 2011). According to him a system should adapt to external environment, have and achieve primary goals, regulate interrelationships with component parts, and sustain motivation of individuals and cultural systems. Parson’s action system comprises of behavioral organism, personality system, social system and cultural system. These form hierarchy of conditioning factors and operate in environment consisting of ultimate reality and physical-organic environment. All these form the Parsons’ action scheme with high information (controls) at highest level, hierarchy of conditioning factors, and high energy (conditions) at lowest level. Parson indicated that low levels provided energy or conditions necessary for higher level that in turn would control hierarchy of conditioning factor below it.
Parsons conceived social system from the smallest level (micro) and showed that this level comprised of interactions between ego and alter ego. This brings about key concepts necessary to achieve social ord...
Updated on
Get the Whole Paper!
Not exactly what you need?
Do you need a custom essay? Order right now:
Sign In
Not register? Register Now!