Answer to Question #203664 in Sociology for niyanta

Question

What criticisms can be directed towards functionalist theory? Give an example of one criticism in relation to South African schools. (5) 

Answer 1

Functionalist theory describes how social institutions meets society and individual needs. It emphasises on social structure and how they meet the societal needs such as schools. Criticism of functionalist theory is It fails to explain social change since it emphasises more on stability and social order of the society. According to functionalist, if a social institution exists then it must serve a purpose. But social institutions disappear, change, or others are developed. According to functionalist perspective school are fair and rewards the best but the theory fails to account for the social inequalities that might hinder attainment.