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Essay / Main sociological perspectives of functionalism and...
Functionalism is based on consensus, the belief that all people share the same values and norms, while Marxism and feminism recognize the conflicts that can arise and shape the society and the relationships established there. Marxists believe that the conflict occurs between the proletariat being oppressed by the bourgeoisie, while Marxist feminists accept the cause of oppression, they believe that it is women who are exploited in society. Other feminist perspectives believe that the conflict results from a patriarchal, male-dominated society. Functionalism places great emphasis on the role of the family as a social institution. Family life should teach children their values and norms and enable them to become productive members of society. To do this, the family structure must include a married mother and father. They believe that a breakup of the family unit would have a negative effect on society and should therefore be avoided, while feminists are more critical of the traditional family structure, which they consider more advantageous for men. In fact, radical feminists support same-sex parenting, single-parent families, and divorce. Feminists and Marxists also differ from functionalists in their view of government. They view laws as another tool of oppression; In contrast, functionalists will view laws as being made with the aim of benefiting society as a whole and encouraging a consensus of values. Both feminism and Marxism have weaknesses in that they focus too much on one aspect of society and ignore other conflicts in society. It could also be said that they place too much emphasis on conflict. In contrast, functionalism is criticized for not recognizing that conflict can arise. Despite the criticisms leveled against these three perspectives, evidence can be found to support their theories. (Haralambos, 2013; Haralambos and Holborn,