Question

The term "functionalism" in anthropology refers to the notion that _______________.

a. ethnographers are competent observers of human culture
b. some societies are functional while others are dysfunctional
c. cultural practices function to fulfill specific needs in a given society
d. culture has no useful purpose for thinking people

Answer 1

Functionalism in anthropology refers to the idea that cultural practices serve specific needs in a society and that different structures in society work together to maintain order and fulfill these needs.

Step-by-step explanation:

Functionalism is a theory in anthropology that views society as a system where all parts work together to create society as a whole. It suggests that cultural practices serve specific needs in a society. For example, cultural norms and values function to support the operation of society and guide people in making choices. Functionalism looks at society as a coherent whole with different structures that reinforce each other to maintain order and fulfill society's needs.