Evaluate Functionalists Views on the Role of Functions in...

Evaluate Functionalists views on the role and functions of religion today. Functionalism is a macro theory, which is based on society as a whole, rather than just that of the individual. It is argued that functionalism generates many things for society. Religion, from a functionalist point of view, socialises people, teaching them norms and values of society, which are the basis for social unity. Religion further is a structure within functionalism which aids in influencing individuals lives. Functionalism claims that social solidarity, the uniting of people in society is an important part of maintaining social order, which is a functional pre-requisite for society to survive. In addition, Functionalists use the term, ‘Organic Analogy’,†¦show more content†¦Religion played an important role in the Trobriand Islands as people would only fish in the open sea once performing a religious ceremony, as it was evidently more dangerous. On the other hand, the islanders felt it was unnecessary to pray when in the lagoon. Therefore, Malinowski continued that religion not only reinforced society’s norms and values but also created calmness, enabling them to cope in their daily lives, allowing them to continue to make a living, maintaining social harmony. Malinowski remained in the Trobriand Islands for a long period of time, further developing his ideas on religion. His use of participant observation can be criticised for many reasons. Malinowski, like Durkheim, based his research on a small scale, meaning there was lack of generalisiblity. Additionally, it is largely argued that Malinowski spent too much time there and is argue that he had many sexual affairs with women there, which could suggest his research could be flawed as his original opinions have probably changed and become very different, and this leads to the fact that he may have loss of objectivity, as he had bonded to closely with the participants of the study. Participant observation did however enable Malinowski to gain in depth research, which Web er would call, â€Å"Verstehen†, the empathy gained when using participant observation. Functionalist, Parsons believed that religion acted as a mechanism forShow MoreRelatedOutline and Evaluate Functionalist Views of the Role of the Family in Society.1570 Words   |  7 PagesOutline and evaluate Functionalist views of the role of the family in society. 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