Question

Comment on the relevance of MacIver’s idea of family as a social unit by referring to any four features of his theory.

Answer 1

MacIver’s idea of Family

1. Universality: Family is the most basic universal social unit. All cultures all over the world have this institution. There is no substitute for family. The world has seen many changes in civilisations, but the institution of family has remained constant. MacIver’s idea is valid, as family has continued to exist despite the transitions in the fabric of society.
2. Emotional basis: A family integrates all the members emotionally. Affection, mutual cooperation and blood ties keep the family together. This bond ensures proper cultural transmission. This proposition of MacIver can be challenged, as it is not the emotional connection only that keeps the members together but also the economic need. In an urban setup, families stay together, as it is financially reasonable.
3. Educative role: Early education begins with the family. It helps develop an individual’s personality and makes him/her internalise social behaviour. The family guides and nurtures the individuals in their first lessons of love, respect, cooperation, normative behaviour and social customs. This idea stays relevant, as family is the primary unit that educates an individual. Before a child begins formal schooling, she is schooled in acceptable behaviour by the family.
4. Limited size: Since the size of the modern family is limited, communication is better and keeps the family closely knit.
5. Nuclear position: The family is the nucleus around which an individual’s life revolves. It is an individual’s most important primary group. In the contemporary urban society, this argument can also be contested, as people have increasingly become individualistic.
6. Sense of responsibility: It allocates a duty to each family member. There are defined roles for all members with expectations from each one. This proposition holds true in present times also, as each member of the family, be it nuclear or joint, is assigned a role to fulfil which justifies their existence in the family setup.
7. Social regulation: A family acts as a social agent and trains the members in socially acceptable behaviour. The social regulations and restrictions set by the family enable members to behave in a socially useful manner. A highly relevant claim which establishes the authority of family, as it keeps the boisterous behaviour of individuals in check. The decisions and actions of many individuals are motivated by their family response.
8. Persistence and change: The form and structure of the family have been changing with time. It has changed with evolving times. As a unit, however, it has continued to exist. This feature holds true, as family has existed despite changes in its form and structure.