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These structures perform certain functions and in terms of structural functional approach, these functions have an interdependent pattern between structures. Social structures can be concrete (like Government department and Bureaus or even specific societies held together by shared beliefs, customs and morals) and also analytic like structure of power or authority. It reads complicated but the theory in itself is not that difficult to understand. The function is the consequence of patterns of actions while the structure is the resultant institution and the pattern of action itself. This approach provides a mechanism to understand social processes. To explore the consequences of intermingling of contrasting systems in the developing countries, he looked at the structural functional approach of the social sciences. He found them to be extremely narcissistic in their approach which believed that the American way of administration was unique without any counterparts elsewhere in the world and that it was capable of answering all the administrative problems emerging in the new developing countries. During his stint as a Researcher at the Foreign Policy Association in USA, Fred Riggs came across an interesting phenomenon regarding the American Public Administration.
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Having explained the broader meaning of the term it makes more sense for us to understand it from the perspective of public administration which would guide our further analysis of the topic. All these functions need to work together to make the body function as a whole.
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These functions are norms, customs, traditions and institutions and can be analogized as organs of a body, as explained by Herbert Spencer. So, according to them, a society has a structure and functions. This approach was developed by the celebrated anthropologist Malinowski and Radcliff Brown.
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This perspective reminds us that we are all part of a larger social system that influences and is influenced by our actions.The structural functional approach to public administration is a term adapted from sociology and anthropology which interprets society as a structure with interrelated parts. Despite its limitations, it provides valuable insights into how different parts of society contribute to the whole. In conclusion, the structural-functional theory is a key perspective in sociology that views society as an integrated system working together for stability. For example, it can help us understand why certain rituals or traditions persist in societies, as they often serve a purpose for the social order. In sociology, the structural-functional theory can be used to explain a wide range of social phenomena. Using Structural-Functional Theory in Sociology Durkheim’s work has greatly influenced how we think about society and its functioning. He believed that society is a reality “sui generis,” or of its own kind, separate from the individuals who compose it. Famous ProponentsĮmile Durkheim, a French sociologist, is one of the most famous proponents of the structural-functional theory. It also tends to assume that all parts of society work well and for the common good, which may not always be the case. Some people argue that it overlooks social inequalities, like those based on race, class, or gender. However, like any theory, the structural-functional theory has its criticisms. Criticisms of the Structural-Functional Theory For instance, it shows us how families provide emotional support, and schools help children develop skills for their future jobs. It emphasizes the importance of social order and cooperation. One of the main strengths of the theory is its focus on the positive aspects of society. Strengths of the Structural-Functional Theory The aim is to understand how different parts contribute to the stability and order of the whole. For example, it might study the role of the family in raising children or how education prepares individuals for their future roles in society. The theory looks at various aspects of society. What Does the Structural-Functional Theory Look At? The idea is that these parts work together to keep the whole system running smoothly. Just as every organ in our body has a specific function, every part of society – whether it’s family, school, or government – serves a particular purpose. This theory considers society as a complex system, much like a human body. First, let’s unpack what the structural-functional theory means.