Functionalism is a major theoretical perspective in anthropology and sociology that views society as a complex system whose various parts work together to promote solidarity and stability. It posits that every social institution, custom, or practice serves a specific function in maintaining the overall social structure and meeting the needs of individuals or the society as a whole.

There are two main branches of functionalism in anthropology:

1. Psychological Functionalism (Malinowski): Bronislaw Malinowski argued that cultural institutions exist to satisfy the basic biological and psychological needs of individuals (e.g., nutrition, reproduction, safety, comfort). For instance, magic functions to reduce anxiety in unpredictable situations, and kinship systems fulfill needs for social organization and child-rearing.
2. Structural Functionalism (Radcliffe-Brown): A.R. Radcliffe-Brown focused on how social institutions contribute to the maintenance and stability of the social structure itself. He used an organic analogy, comparing society to a biological organism where each organ (institution) performs a vital function to keep the whole system alive and in equilibrium. For example, rituals function to reinforce social cohesion and moral values.

Functionalism was influential in shifting anthropological focus from historical reconstruction to synchronic analysis of how societies operate. However, it has been criticized for its inability to adequately explain social change, conflict, and power dynamics, often presenting societies as static and harmonious systems. It also tends to overlook individual agency and the potential for dysfunction within social structures.