structural functionalist theory
This essay is an attempt to discuss the problems political parties in Zambia are facing by using structural-functionalist and their contributions to liberal democracy. The academic piece shall begin by defining the key terms; those being, structural-functionalist, political parties and liberal democracy. This will be followed by a comprehensive discussion of political parties, focused on, with examples, the Zambian scene. Lastly, a brief conclusion based on the discussion will be outlined.
“Functionalism holds that society is a complex system whose various parts work together to produce stability and solidarity” (Giddens 2006:20). It also views society in terms of their functions. Merton (1968), made an important distinctions between manifest and latent functions. The manifest functions of an institution are open, stated, conscious functions. They involve intended, recognized consequences of an aspect of the society such as the university’s role in classifying academic competence and excellence. By contrast, latent functions as unconscious or unintended functions and may reflect hidden purposes of an institution.
Structural-functionalist acknowledges that not all parts of the society contribute to its stability all the time. This function refers to an element or process in society that may actually disrupt as social system or lead to a decrease in stability” (Schaefer, 2004: 14). Social life depends on unity and cooperation of a group. The functionalist points out that for society to be stable the different parts of the society must contribute to the stability of society. For instance, the teachers should teach the society to reduce illiteracy, the doctors are making sure that society is healthy, and the police maintain order. Hence society becomes stable since everyone is contributing.
According to MacIver (1962), a political party is an association organized in support of some principles or policy which constitutional means it endeavors to make the determinant of
“Functionalism holds that society is a complex system whose various parts work together to produce stability and solidarity” (Giddens 2006:20). It also views society in terms of their functions. Merton (1968), made an important distinctions between manifest and latent functions. The manifest functions of an institution are open, stated, conscious functions. They involve intended, recognized consequences of an aspect of the society such as the university’s role in classifying academic competence and excellence. By contrast, latent functions as unconscious or unintended functions and may reflect hidden purposes of an institution.
Structural-functionalist acknowledges that not all parts of the society contribute to its stability all the time. This function refers to an element or process in society that may actually disrupt as social system or lead to a decrease in stability” (Schaefer, 2004: 14). Social life depends on unity and cooperation of a group. The functionalist points out that for society to be stable the different parts of the society must contribute to the stability of society. For instance, the teachers should teach the society to reduce illiteracy, the doctors are making sure that society is healthy, and the police maintain order. Hence society becomes stable since everyone is contributing.
According to MacIver (1962), a political party is an association organized in support of some principles or policy which constitutional means it endeavors to make the determinant of
Bibliography: Ball A.R (1976). Modern politics and government. London: Macmillan. Giddens A. (2009). Sociology, London, McGraw Hilllnc. Isakpa P (2008). opposition must offer credible, alternative policy options: business day, the voice of the business: Johari, J MacIver R.M (1962). The modern state. Oxford university press. Mathisen H and Svasand L (2000). funding political in emerging African democracies: what role for Norway? Bergen. Mwansa, B (2013), Political Challenges (16th September, 2013: 6:04pm). Retrieved at 10:45pm from http://www.lusakatimes.com/2012/09/16/zambians-political-challenges/ Okar E (2005) Ranker L (2002). multiparty elections in Africa’s new democracies: Bergen,chr Michelson institute. Schaefer T.R (2004). Sociology. New York, McGraw Hall. Wilson F.G (1956). The elements of modern politics. New York: McGraw-hill