Parsons' AGIL schema
Parsons' AGIL identifies four functional requirements of social systems: Adaptation (relating to environment), Goal-attainment (achieving collective goals), Integration (maintaining solidarity), Latency (maintaining values/motivation).
Real World
The NHS demonstrates AGIL in action: the economy funds it (Adaptation), government sets health targets (Goal-attainment), it builds national solidarity (Integration), and shared values around public healthcare reinforce commitment to the system (Latency).
Exam Focus
When applying AGIL, name all four functions and link each to a specific institution — examiners reward precise application, not vague description.
How well did you know this?