Final answer:
The male friend's opinion that an older gentleman's independence should not influence decision making or social interactions is not entirely justified, as sociological research underscores the importance of individual agency within a broader social context.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of the provided information, it appears the question revolves around the influence of various factors, such as gender and age, on individuals and social processes. The student is asking whether it is justified to suggest that an older gentleman's independence should not influence decision making, be questioned, be discussed, or impact personal choices. At its core, the independence of an individual, especially relating to aging men in the functionalist perspective, suggests they play supportive community roles post-retirement.
Giving the male friend's opinion that the older gentleman's independence should not impact these areas might be overlooking the complex social dynamics at play, including the proven effects of gender and socioeconomic factors on decision-making processes. Furthermore, the sociological research indicates the importance of agency and control in different social roles and decisions, such as family spending patterns influenced by gender and the provision of assistance to families.
Therefore, while the older gentleman's independence is a valuable asset, it should not be viewed in isolation; discussions and considerations of the broader sociological context are essential.