Question

Sociologists who use the structural functionalist perspective (such as Robert Merton) differentiate between _____ functions (the anticipated or intended consequences of social institutions) and ____ functions (the unintended or unrecognized consequences of social institutions).

a) Manifest, latent
b) Primary, secondary
c) Formal, informal
d) Explicit, implicit

Answer 1

Sociologists who use the structural functionalist perspective differentiate between manifest functions (anticipated or intended consequences) and latent functions (unintended consequences) of social institutions.

Step-by-step explanation:

According to the structural functionalist perspective, sociologists such as Robert Merton differentiate between manifest functions and latent functions of social institutions. Manifest functions refer to the anticipated or intended consequences of social institutions, while latent functions are the unintended or unrecognized consequences. For example, in the context of college education, manifest functions include gaining knowledge and preparing for a career, while latent functions include meeting new people and participating in extracurricular activities. These latent functions can be beneficial, neutral, or harmful.