which perspective states that society maintains itself at an equilibrium?
The functionalist perspective is based largely on the works of Herbert Spencer, Emile Durkheim, Talcott Parsons, and Robert Merton. According to functionalism, society is a system of. interconnected parts that work together in harmony to maintain a state of balance and social. equilibrium for the whole. For example, each of the social institutions contributes important. functions for society: Family provides a context for reproducing, nurturing, and socializing. children; education offers a way to transmit a societyâs skills, knowledge, and culture to its youth;