An analytical perspective in which the world is viewed as a set of interdependent systems. Their collective actions and relations reflect repeatable and predictable regularities in which form and function can be assumed to be related. It has influenced heavily theorizing and modeling in geography and planning. Systems analysis has offered tools for a functionalist analysis of spatial and social phenomena. Functionalism has been heavily criticized on both logical and substantive grounds. In the former instance, the unintended or unanticipated consequences of a form of social conduct cannot be used to explain its existence in the first instance; in the latter, functionalism assumes a purpose ("needs" or "goals") without a purposive agent.

the theory that all elements of a culture are functional in that they serve to satisfy culturally defined needs of the people in that society or requirements of the society as a whole.

Stresses that human behaviour is governed by relatively stable social structures. It underlines how social structures maintain or undermine social stability. It emphasizes that social structures are based mainly on shared values or preferences. And it suggests that re-establishing equilibrium can best solve most social problems.

is an approach to explaining social phenomena in terms of their contribution to a social totality. Thus, for example, crime is explained as necessary for marking the boundary of acceptable behaviour, reinforcing social order. Prominent functionalists include Durkheim and Parsons.

Accounts for social activity by referring to its consequences for the operation of some other social activity, institution or society as a whole.

is a sociological perspective that views all parts of society as being interrelated and contributing to the maintenance of society.

The sociological perspective concerned with how various parts of a society or social system affect other parts within that system, and how they function in the overall continuity of that system.

A theory that stresses the interdependence of the institutions of a society and their interaction in maintaining cultural and social unity.

an approach to religious studies in which one examines and analyzes the manner(s) in which religion is utilized within a social system or group; i.e., what does religion "do" for people in everyday life? In times of crisis? As ritual enactment? As "magic?"

The theory that criminal activity contributes to the maintenance of and stability of normal behaviour by establishing boundaries of acceptable and tolerable limits to human actions.