Which term refers to the idea that 'society is made up of interrelated parts that function together'?

• A. Conflict perspective
• B. Looking-glass self
• C. Functionalist perspective
• D. Theoretical perspective

Answer: (C)

This question tests understanding of how a society is viewed as a system of interrelated parts that work together to maintain stability. The term that captures this idea is the functionalist perspective. It sees social institutions—like family, education, religion, and the economy—as components that each have a function contributing to the overall harmony and smooth operation of society. When all parts function well, social order and cohesion emerge; if one part shifts, others adapt to restore balance, keeping the system stable over time. This macro-level view emphasizes how norms and institutions reinforce one another to support the whole.

The other concepts point to different ideas: the conflict perspective centers on power struggles and inequalities that drive social change rather than harmony; the looking-glass self describes how individuals form self-images based on how they think others perceive them; a theoretical perspective is a broad term that could refer to many different frameworks, not specifically the idea of interrelated parts functioning together.