Robert K. Merton, a prominent sociologist in the 20th century, made substantial contributions to the functionalist perspective within sociology. Building upon the foundational ideas of Émile Durkheim and Talcott Parsons, Merton's theory of functionalism introduced significant modifications to classical functionalism, making it more flexible and applicable to complex societies. Merton’s approach addressed some limitations of earlier functionalist theories and proposed a nuanced view of social structures, functions, and the role of institutions. His work has been widely influential, particularly due to his postulates for functional analysis, which lay the foundation for a sophisticated understanding of social phenomena. Understanding Functionalism Functionalism is a theoretical perspective that views society as a complex system composed of interdependent parts, each of which serves a particular purpose to maintain the stability and harmony of the whole. In this perspective, socia...