Final answer:
According to functionalism, weak social ties and a lack of social control result in society losing its effective functioning, as seen in economic crises or social unrest.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the functionalist perspective, due to weak social ties and an absence of social control, society begins to lose its ability to function effectively. The functionalist perspective emphasizes the importance of social institutions and practices in maintaining order and stability within society. Dysfunctions may occur when societal components do not adapt adequately to changing conditions, which can lead to a loss of function. For instance, the economic crisis following the housing bubble burst, due to risky lending and an underregulated financial market, represents a major societal dysfunction as described by Merton's theory of functionality. Additionally, racial injustices and resulting civil unrest can disrupt the social equilibrium, necessitating changes to re-establish or find new functional balance within society.