The working papers in Subsystems of American Society document conceptual developments based on Parsons' famous four-function paradigm. The included chapters analyze the American economy, polity, and societal community. They represent Parsons' first attempt to apply the four-function paradigm to the understanding of a complex modern society with highly differentiated institutional structures. As such, they clarify important developments in 20th century sociological theory as well as underscoring Parsons' insightful understanding of American society.
The working papers in Subsystems of American Society document conceptual developments based on Parsons' famous four-function paradigm. The included chapters analyze the American economy, polity, and societal community. They represent Parsons' first attempt to apply the four-function paradigm to t...