SWK 501 Week 5 Discussion Chapter 4 Evolutionary and Structural Functionalist Theories

Running Head: EVOLUTIONARY AND STRUCTURAL FUNCTIONALIST THEORIES 1
SWK 501: Week 5 Discussion Chapter 4: Evolutionary and Structural Functionalist Theories
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EVOLUTIONARY AND STRUCTURAL FUNCTIONALIST THEORIES 2
Why is it important to understand the ideology behind social Darwinism?
Understanding the ideology of social Darwinism is an important aspect of life that
enables the subject to relate to the nature and human laws which are a primary postulate for the
survival of the fittest in providing the political and moral standpoints. With this knowledge, the
well-being of the society can be enhanced and ensure proper implementation of law.
Discuss some of the main tenets of Marxist and neo-Marxist theories
According to Marsiglia & Kulis (2015), Neo-Marxist theory is a non-orthodox concept
that tries to answer traditional questions. Its central tenet is based on the issues of economic,
political and technological advancements that seek to address the inadequacy of the traditional
Marxist theory. Neo-Marxist has become and independent theory which defines the economic
processes as an external aspect that relies on a core-periphery of the world economy. Further, the
theory has evolved into a world system that provides a more macro approach to social change
and economic rationale. Besides, it presents an argument that nations cannot be the basic unit in
social-economic analysis but the international systems of the economy can be the key
On the other hand, Marxist theory is based on the principles of capitalism. The societal
transformation is dependent on a system that aims to provide service to the people rather making
a profit from them. Secondly, it relies on the principle of internationalism which offers interest
for all the workers in the entire word to recognize and reconcile the social classes which divide
men and women in the society.
How would you define world systems theory?
I would describe world system theory as an approach to social and historical theory that
offers suggestions to the existence of a global economic system where some countries benefit at
the expense of the other. It is based on three country levels such as periphery, semi-periphery,
EVOLUTIONARY AND STRUCTURAL FUNCTIONALIST THEORIES 3
and core. The latter presents the superior nations which a chance to exploit the former regarding
raw materials and labor.
How does structural functionalism influence social thought and policies in contemporary
society?
Functionalism attempts to offer an explanation of the collective means that can be used to
meet social and individual needs. The structure influences policies and thoughts in the society by
providing social institutions that ensure solidarity and family ties in sharing common symbols
and values. Also, structural functionalism in the modern society has significantly influenced the
policy formulation and implementation in an organic social structure during the extensive
division of labor (Knottnerus, 1988).
Describe assimilation theories
Assimilation is a valid path and process through which a person or group of individuals is
incorporated into the destination’s mainstream with an exchange of behavior and language.
Marsiglia & Kulis (2015), describe assimilation as a cognitive process that elaborates how we
interact with new incorporation and information that already exist in our knowledge. Moreover,
these theories have a profound impact on the socioeconomic and political environments that is
experienced by immigrants that potentially trigger the adaptive and coping strategies.
What are your thoughts on the melting pot theory?
The theory presents an accurate reflection of the state of the United States' cultural
mixture up and the immigrants’ assimilation into the American culture. Unlike other nations,
America experiences a very high cultural, religion, and racial differences among its citizens but
living in the same society hence a melting pot. In addition, the theory creates an assimilation
structure of how the immigrants have been incorporated into the social system by the hosts.
EVOLUTIONARY AND STRUCTURAL FUNCTIONALIST THEORIES 4
Explain structural role theory in your words and discuss how this might impact our work
with clients
Structural role theory is a predetermined behavioral system that dictates how different
people in an organization should interact with the other. It set duties, standards, rights and
expectations which are an accompaniment of a given social position. This theory might impact
our interaction with the client by limiting what our expectation should be. With the provided
culturally defined norms, we can create rightful engagements following these structural role
procedures.
Why would we need to know about human capital theory?
The knowledge about human capital is important in the economic development of an
individual by understanding their embodied ability to leverage labor to produce better economic
value. Besides, with this understanding, a human will appreciate education as the primary
element of human capital that cannot deplete, and in most cases, it will pay off in terms of high
levels of productivity.
EVOLUTIONARY AND STRUCTURAL FUNCTIONALIST THEORIES 5
References
Knottnerus, J. (1988). A Critique of Expectation States Theory Theoretical Assumptions and
Models of Social Cognition. Sociological Perspectives, 31(4), 420-445.
Marsiglia, F.F., &Kulis, S.S. (2015). Diversity, Oppression & Change. Chapter 4: Evolutionary
and Structural Functionalist Theories

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