How does structural-functional theoretical framework explain the functions of kinship systems in maintaining social order and stability?

FUNCTIONAL ASPECTS OF KINSHIP.

(1) Kinship allows for social groups and organization in traditional societies. Eg: Gotra. (Ghurye). (2) Controls social relations by instituting rules of marriage. Eg: Ghurye, Coomaraswamy talks of Sapinda, Sathan concepts for exogamy. (3) Provides economic survival for members. Eg: Tribes in Malinowski's Trobriander studies. (4) Social protection and solidarity. Eg: Evans Pritchard talks of clan groups - kaurvas and Pandavas - in Mahabharat.

1. Educational role of kinship groups. Eg: Occupational jatis in Jajmani system, closely guarded family trade secrets etc.

2. Ritualistic participation and Recreational value. Eg: Families coming together for festivals.

3. Kinship groups provide social support when members are debilitated. Also as for legitimate inheritance (Marxist-Engels).

4. Control over members' conduct. Eg: Caste panchayats among groups.

5. Enforce rules of taboo Eg: Incest is avoided in most kinship groups for stability - (Robin Fox).

Fox identifies other functions of transmission of property, control sexual relations, enable co-operation among male members etc. It provides 'IDENTITIES' and social honour to the members.

Thus, kinship groups promote stable social order through SOCIAL CONTROL and SOLIDARITY.

Dysfunctional Aspects

(1) Kinship groups curb individual freedom. (2) Rigid and status quoist with low scope of social mobility at individual level. (3) Uma Chakravorty on negative impact of kula, gotra rules on role of women - imposing patriarchy. (4) Marxist feminists emphasize on their controlling aspect of women for transmission of private property. (5) Can create social tensions and conflict among groups. (6) Antithetical to secular values.