Merton's manifest and latent functions
Merton distinguished manifest functions (intended, recognised consequences of social practice) from latent functions (unintended, unrecognised consequences).
Real World
The manifest function of school sports is physical fitness; the latent function, as identified by sociologists, is teaching teamwork and obedience to authority — qualities that benefit employers rather than students.
Exam Focus
In 'distinguish' or 'explain' questions, always define both terms then illustrate each with a different example to secure full marks.
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