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Basic Introduction to Structural functional approach

The Structural-Functional Approach in Comparative Politics examines political systems by analyzing their structures and the functions these structures perform to maintain stability. It categorizes political functions into input and output functions and emphasizes the interdependence of structures and functions across different political systems. While it offers comparative utility and a holistic perspective, it faces criticisms for its static analysis, functional ambiguity, and cultural bias.

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9 views

Basic Introduction to Structural functional approach

The Structural-Functional Approach in Comparative Politics examines political systems by analyzing their structures and the functions these structures perform to maintain stability. It categorizes political functions into input and output functions and emphasizes the interdependence of structures and functions across different political systems. While it offers comparative utility and a holistic perspective, it faces criticisms for its static analysis, functional ambiguity, and cultural bias.

Uploaded by

Amisha Saxena
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Basic Introduction to Structural-Functional Approach in Comparative Politics

📘 Structural-Functional Approach in Comparative Politics


1. Definition and Origins

The Structural-Functional Approach analyzes political systems by examining their structures


(institutions) and the functions these structures perform to maintain system stability. Originating
from sociology and anthropology, this approach was adapted to political science by scholars like
Gabriel Almond and Bingham Powell.(Essay Collection)

2. Core Concepts

 Structure: Stable institutions or patterns of behavior within a political system (e.g.,


legislatures, executives, courts, political parties).(123PDF)
 Function: The roles or activities these structures perform to sustain the political system.

The approach posits that all political systems, regardless of their nature, perform certain
fundamental functions necessary for their survival and stability.(CivilServiceIndia)

3. Input and Output Functions

Gabriel Almond categorized political functions into inputs and outputs:(Political Science Notes)

 Input Functions:
o Political Socialization and Recruitment: Processes by which individuals acquire
political culture and are integrated into the political system.
o Interest Articulation: Expression of political interests by individuals or groups.
o Interest Aggregation: Combining various interests into policy proposals.
o Political Communication: Dissemination and exchange of political information.
(Wikipedia)
 Output Functions:
o Rule-Making: Legislative processes that establish laws.
o Rule-Application: Implementation of laws by the executive.
o Rule-Adjudication: Interpretation and enforcement of laws by the judiciary.

These functions are essential for the operation and maintenance of any political system.

4. Assumptions of the Approach

 Political systems are composed of interrelated structures that perform essential functions.
 Each structure has specific functions, and these functions are crucial for the system's
stability.
 Structures and functions are universal, allowing for comparative analysis across different
political systems.(thebooknotes.in)

5. Strengths

 Comparative Utility: Facilitates the comparison of different political systems by


focusing on common functions.
 Systemic Perspective: Provides a holistic view of political systems, emphasizing the
interdependence of structures and functions.
 Adaptability: Applicable to both developed and developing political systems, aiding in
understanding diverse political phenomena.(Wikipedia)

6. Criticisms

 Static Analysis: Tends to focus on stability and order, often neglecting change, conflict,
and revolution.
 Functional Ambiguity: Difficulty in determining the specific functions of certain
structures, leading to analytical vagueness.
 Cultural Bias: Originally developed based on Western political systems, it may not
adequately account for non-Western political dynamics.
 Neglect of Power Dynamics: Insufficient emphasis on power struggles, inequalities, and
coercive aspects within political systems.(Essay Collection)

📚 Key Books and Authors on Structural-Functional


Approach
Author(s) Title Contribution
Comparative Politics: A
Gabriel Almond & Introduced the structural-functional
Developmental Approach
Bingham Powell framework to comparative politics.
(1966)
A Systems Analysis of Applied systems theory to political science,
David Easton
Political Life (1965) influencing structural-functional analysis.
Samuel P. Political Order in Changing Examined political development and
Huntington Societies (1968) institutionalization in changing societies.
Patterns of Democracy Analyzed different democratic systems,
Arend Lijphart
(1999) emphasizing institutional arrangements.
Explored how institutions shape thought
Mary Douglas How Institutions Think (1986) processes, relevant to understanding political
structures.
Bruce Bueno de The Logic of Political Developed selectorate theory, analyzing
Mesquita et al. Survival (2003) political institutions and leadership survival.

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