ALL meanings of functionalism
func·tion·al·ism
F f - noun functionalism Belief in or stress on the practical application of a thing, in particular. 1
- noun functionalism (usually initial capital letter) Chiefly Architecture, Furniture. a design movement evolved from several previous movements or schools in Europe in the early 20th century, advocating the design of buildings, furnishings, etc., as direct fulfillments of material requirements, as for shelter, repose, or the serving of food, with the construction, materials, and purpose clearly expressed or at least not denied, and with aesthetic effect derived chiefly from proportions and finish, purely decorative effects being excluded or greatly subordinated. the doctrines and practices associated with this movement. Compare rationalism (def 4). 1
- noun functionalism Psychology. the doctrine that emphasizes the adaptiveness of the mental or behavioral processes. 1
- noun functionalism Sociology.. Also called structural functionalism. a theoretical orientation that views society as a system of interdependent parts whose functions contribute to the stability and survival of the system. 1
- noun functionalism utilitarian design 1
- uncountable noun functionalism Functionalism is the idea that the most important aspect of something, especially the design of a building or piece of furniture, is how it is going to be used or its usefulness. 0
- noun functionalism the theory of design that the form of a thing should be determined by its use 0
- noun functionalism any doctrine that stresses utility or purpose 0
- noun functionalism a system of thought based on the premise that all mental processes derive from their usefulness to the organism in adapting to the environment 0
- noun functionalism the theory or practice in art, architecture, and design that the structure or design of anything should be strongly related to its function 0
- noun functionalism the social theory which holds that a society's beliefs, behavior, social structure, etc. are interrelated and function as a means to achieve its common goals and protect its social values 0