Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

functionalist

noun

/ˈfʌŋkʃənəlɪst/

Definition

A person who believes in or adheres to the principles of functionalism, often in the context of sociology or philosophy.

Examples

As a functionalist, she argued that every social phenomenon has a purpose.
The functionalist perspective is crucial in understanding how various institutions work together.
His functionalist views often led him to reject purely theoretical approaches.

Meaning

Functionalist refers to the viewpoint that different elements of society serve specific functions that contribute to the overall stability and operation of that society.