A Functionalist perspective on Race and Ethnicity is that Functionalists believe that in terms of understanding ethnic stratification it is possible to achieve a value consensus in wider society regardless of cultural variations between ethnic groups in society. Functionalists believe that Ethnic groups need to become assimilated into mainstream or dominant culture. A key assumption behind this approach is that although societies go through a period of adaption with an influx of immigrant groups that it naturally manages to stabilise itself through absorption. Functionalists theorise that when immigrants become assimilated into the host society they can participate in the benefits of the host society, such as upward social mobility.
Functionalist study on race and ethnicity Sheila Patterson (1965) 'Dark Strangers'
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Functionalists view race and ethnicity as important for social cohesion and stability. They believe that these categories can help create a sense of identity and belonging within a society. Functionalists argue that different racial and ethnic groups contribute in unique ways to the overall functioning of a society.
The three basic elements of the functionalist perspective in sociology are: the emphasis on the interconnectedness and interdependence of societal institutions, the belief that society tends toward equilibrium and stability, and the focus on the functions that social institutions serve in maintaining social order and cohesion.
Randall Collins, a prominent sociologist, has noted that the functionalist perspective's focus on maintaining social stability and the conflict perspective's emphasis on promoting social change reflect the contradictory nature of society. This highlights how society strives for both stability and change simultaneously.
The functionalist perspective emphasizes the integrative power of education in human society. It views education as providing essential functions such as socialization, transmission of culture, and preparation of individuals for the workforce, all of which contribute to the stability and cohesion of society.
The functionalist perspective on family focuses on the ways in which the family contributes to the smooth functioning of society. It emphasizes the roles and functions that family members play in maintaining social order and stability. Functionalists view the family as a key institution that serves important functions, such as socializing children and providing emotional support.
The functionalist perspective in sociology notes how the family fulfills the needs of its members by providing emotional support, socialization, and stability. It also emphasizes how the family plays a crucial role in maintaining social order and stability within society.