Structural functionalists view society as a set of interrelated parts. They argue that solutions to social problems, such as the one you will propose this week, may lead to additional social problems. Some examples include: urban development projects, which ultimately displace current residents and divide unified communities and racial disparities in schools, which lead to forced integration and increased hostility – or even violence – between the races.

• What other “solutions” may lead to additional or exacerbated social problems?
• Do all solutions come with a price?
• Can you think of a viable solution to any social problem that has no negative consequences?

Resource:

• Structural-Functionalism, Exchange Theory, and the New Political Economy