Describe the four essential elements of structural functionalism.

Structural functionalism is a theoretical
construct associated with early€“ to mid€“twentieth-century British social anthropology. Its
overall emphasis is on the structural elements and associated functions of societies. One
central element is its holistic perspective, the idea that social institutions work together to
constitute the social structure, and society is a well-integrated whole. A second premise is
that each institution has specific functions which are not duplicated in any of the others.
Closely related is the third idea, that those institutions function together to maintain balance
or equilibrium so that the society remains in harmony. The theory emphasizes the importance of
kinship, which establishes the preferred relationships among individuals, as the basis of the
social structure. A fourth element is the emphasis on permanence and the conviction that culture
change is superficial and short-lived and does not substantially affect the underlying
structure. The denial of the lasting effects of change and lack of attention to culture are
often considered the major shortcomings of this theory.

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