Functionalism is a theoretical perspective in sociology based on the notion that social events, institutions, and norms can best be explained in terms of the functions they perform – that is, the contributions they make to the continuity, stability, and overall well-being of a society. It views society as a complex system analogous to a living organism, where various interdependent parts work in a relatively stable relationship to each other, each fulfilling a specific role or function that is necessary for the whole to operate effectively. Functionalists seek to understand how different social structures, such as the family, education, religion, and the economy, contribute to the maintenance of social order and cohesion. This perspective emphasises the importance of shared values, norms, and consensus in society and how these contribute to social equilibrium. When examining social phenomena, functionalists ask what role that phenomenon plays in the larger social system and what its consequences are for the maintenance of social stability.