Structural-Functional vs Socio-Conflict Theories of Culture - Essay Example

Social Structure is Supported by the following:

a) Folklore/ Ideologies - are learned at an early age and are accepted by all who surround us, we simply accept by all who surround us, we simply accept them as truth.

b) Rituals - often involve the supernaturals, beings beyond the level of human life, which is not only reinforced but also was suggested that powerful, forces have t6he decreed that life should be the way it is.

Robert Merton introduced the idea of dysfunctions or negative consequences of society for the whole and also according to him structures can be both functional and dysfunctional and it is important to determine the relative balance of these negative and positive consequences.

He proposed the following functions:

- Manifest Functions - those that are easily seen.

- Latent Functions - those which are less obvious, often unintended, and unnoted by the people involved.

Emile Durkheim stated that in the gender-based division the differentiation within society makes people more dependent on one another.

An example of Structural-Functionalism: The presence of families and kin is a social structure that functions to guarantee child care and mutual support within groups. The presence of family and kin across societies is an example of cultural regularity.

Socio-Conflict Theory was introduced by Marvin Harris. It examines how the physical environment in which people live influences their life. They exist in different environments and have different resources or materials. They have different types of family structures. Ex., Nuclear/extended family.

Example of Socio-Conflict Theory: Polynesians traditionally built their houses made out of grasses and plant materials in part because they were ready markable and the climate did not require protection against harsh weather. Inuit, on the other hand, built igloos to provide extensive protection from cold. The difference in habitat between Polynesians and, Inuit is an example of cultural variation.