What is structural functionalism? (Five minute sociology series#6)

Today we'll explore structural functionalism. What is structural functionalism? Structural functionalism is the exploration of what keeps our society stable. Wars, pandemics, and disasters happen in our society, yet society remains intact. How is this? Well, it's structural functionalism! The pieces of our society are interactive and interdependent which creates stability. Today we'll explore structural functionalism, briefly learn of its creators and innovators (Durkheim, Parsons, and Merton), and get an example of it in action.

This series is all about taking complicated sociological ideas and reducing them to a five minute conversation. If there's a topic you'd like me to cover, just let me know in the comments.

Images:
Coverart by StarryAI.com

Chapters
0:00 five minute sociology!
0:19 defining structural functionalism
0:56 Durkheim's idea of social structure
1:20 solidarity (mechanic and organic)
2:06 American adaptations (Parsons and Merton) and systems theory
2:31 three sociological perspectives
2:47 example of structural functionalism in action
3:40 example of society as a living organism
4:07 why does this idea matter?