structural functionalism difference from conflict theory

Therefore, those with most resources put pressure on those without resources, and in the end, there is an unequal distribution of resources. Andersen and Taylor (21) indicate that individuals and groups fight for control over society’s resources trying to secure them to meet their interests. The theory demonstrates that the unequal distribution of the resource is brought by people who are powerful and want everything to be in their interest.Ĭoercion and social control unite people in society, but there is exceptional of shared values and conformity. From a perspective of conflict theory, consensus occurs because people are united to attain a common interest and often in conflict with other groups. The theory emphasizes the order in society is maintained by power and not unity and the power is with the mighty ones. While, functionalism emphasis unity within society, conflict theory focuses on strive and friction in society. Conflict theoryĪccording to Andersen and Taylor (21), conflict theory focuses on the role of coercion and power that gives individuals or groups the ability to influence and control others in producing social order. Therefore, the theory is concern about the togetherness of all parts of society to produce a whole society.

Meanwhile, the theory was further developed by Talcott Parsons, who urged that all parts of the social system interact. The theory was further developed by Robert Merton, who argued that social activities have consequences for society that are not always immediately perceptible. These negative impacts from malfunctioning in the social system include a breakdown in shared values and social institutions no longer meet the people’s needs. The changes that may occur due to the malfunctioning of some part in the society may be beneficial or may hurt society. The functionalism theory argues that when one part of society is not functioning well, it influences all other parts and cause social problems in society. Several changes are brought by the incompetence of society thus, the parts in society should be organized well to bring stability (Powers 175). Thus, the theory maintains the sharing of public resources that produce an orderly society.

Structural functionalism difference from conflict theory