Final answer:
A functional relationship is a mathematical concept where each element of one set is paired with a unique element of another set, using functions to describe economic models or depict societal relationships as per the theory of functionalism.
Step-by-step explanation:
A functional relationship in mathematics is a correspondence between two sets, typically referred to as the domain and the range, where each element of the domain is associated with exactly one element of the range. This concept frequently appears in economic models, where functions are used to define relationships between different economic variables. For instance, a functional relationship might describe the association between hours worked and income earned; as the number of hours (domain) increases, income (range) also changes accordingly. It's important to note that functions can be described using various representations, such as equations, graphs, or even word definitions. An example of this, in simpler terms, could be something like 'Professor = Adam Smith,' which defines a specific relationship between the term 'Professor' and the individual 'Adam Smith.'
When viewed through the lens of social sciences, functionalism interprets society as a complex system whose components work together to promote solidarity and stability. This theory analogizes social institutions to a biological organism's interconnected parts, each serving a crucial function for the organism's survival. In this context, functionality often pertains to the maintenance of social norms and institutions, like ensuring family stability through regulated sexual behaviors or defining social service areas, such as a pizza shop’s delivery radius.