What is the difference between structuralism and functionalism?

Structuralism and functionalism are often compared to each other. When you say structuralism, this means that you are focusing on the human mind and the different things that are related to the human mind.

When you say functionalism, this means that you would be looking at the more objective form of studying. They say that for functionalism, you would need to check the mind and the behavior so that you will know if the mind and the body are going to work properly so that the function will be effective for the tasks that need to be done. Take note that structuralism means that you are looking at the different brain elements.

The difference between structuralism and functionalism is that structuralism focuses on various brain elements and their capacities. In contrast, functionalism is centered around the adaption of the human mind to different environments. Structuralism suggests that different features are linked and part of something greater.

This structure can be observed throughout cultures, society, and language; However, functionalists propose that every element of society has its function. It is the independence of these particular functions that lead to the stability and success of society. Functionalism itself was a reaction to structuralism. The charge was mostly driven by the brilliant Charles Darwin, who first proposed the evolutionary theory.

Functionalists state that there is a social structure that influences individual behavior through the process of socialization. Structuralists, on the other hand, recognize the different connections that contribute to the establishment of structure.