Overview
Manifest and latent functions are key concepts in sociology that help us understand the different outcomes of social structures. Manifest functions are the intended and recognized consequences, such as the education system's goal to teach students. In contrast, latent functions are the unintended an...
Key Terms
Example: The education system's manifest function is to educate students.
Example: A latent function of schools is to foster social networks.
Example: Family, education, and government are examples of social structures.
Example: The consequences of a law can be both intended and unintended.
Example: Sociology examines how social institutions affect individual behavior.
Example: A case study of a school can reveal both manifest and latent functions.