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__________ are based on the assumption that society is a stable, orderly system composed of interrelated parts, each of which (ideally) contributes to the overall stability of the society.

A. Functionalist perspectives
B. Conflict perspectives
C. Interactionist perspectives
D. Developmental perspectives

2 Answers

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Final answer:

The Functionalist perspective is the view that considers society as a stable, orderly system made up of interrelated parts contributing to societal balance. It's a macro-level approach that examines how social elements function harmoniously to maintain equilibrium and fulfill collective societal needs.

Step-by-step explanation:

The theoretical perspective that views society as having a system of interdependent inherently connected parts is the Functionalist perspective.

This macro-level approach asserts that each part of society contributes to the stability and functioning of the whole. The Functionalist perspective examines how societal elements like institutions, norms, and traditions work together harmoniously to maintain social equilibrium and fulfill collective needs.

Functionalist theorists might study phenomena like the Tea Party or the MeToo movements to understand the role they play within the larger social structure.

They may examine how such movements contribute to expressing societal concerns and how they ultimately serve to stabilize society by allowing for the voicing of discontent. In contrast, the Conflict perspective would focus on the power struggles and inequalities within society,

while the Symbolic Interactionist perspective would look more closely at individual interactions and the meanings they produce.

User Neel Kamath
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Final answer:

Functionalist perspectives are based on the assumption that society is a stable, orderly system composed of interrelated parts, each of which (ideally) contributes to the overall stability of the society. (Option A)

Step-by-step explanation:

Functionalist perspectives, denoted by option A, revolve around the idea that society functions as a stable and orderly system, akin to a well-oiled machine. This theoretical framework, primarily associated with sociologists like Emile Durkheim and Talcott Parsons, posits that various social institutions, such as family, education, religion, and government, work in harmony to maintain social equilibrium. Each institution has a specific function that contributes to the overall stability and functioning of society.

In functionalism, these institutions are believed to serve essential roles in meeting society's needs, such as socialization, the regulation of behavior, and the allocation of resources. When all parts of society fulfill their functions adequately, the result is social cohesion and stability. Deviance or dysfunction within any of these parts is seen as an anomaly that requires correction to restore balance.

Therefore, the correct option is: A. Functionalist perspectives

User Skaue
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