Learning Path
Question & Answer1
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Explore TopicChoose the Best Answer
A
Structural functionalism overlooks the dynamic nature of social change.
B
It emphasizes only the manifest functions of social institutions.
C
Structural functionalism fails to account for power disparities in society.
D
It accurately reflects the consensus of shared norms in society.
Understanding the Answer
Let's break down why this is correct
Answer
A common criticism of structural functionalism is that it tends to overlook how norms and latent functions can create social inequalities. Structural functionalism suggests that every part of society works together to maintain stability and order, but it often ignores the ways that some norms may benefit certain groups over others. For example, a norm like strict dress codes in schools might promote discipline, but it can also disadvantage students from lower-income families who cannot afford specific clothing. This means that while structural functionalism highlights the positive roles of norms, it can miss the negative impacts they may have on marginalized groups. Therefore, critics argue that this perspective doesn't fully account for the complexity of social dynamics and the potential for conflict.
Detailed Explanation
This answer points out that structural functionalism doesn't consider how power is unevenly shared. Other options are incorrect because This option suggests that structural functionalism ignores change; This choice implies that structural functionalism only looks at obvious functions.
Key Concepts
norms
latent functions
criticism of functionalism
Topic
Structural Functionalism
Difficulty
hard level question
Cognitive Level
understand
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