func·tion·al·ism (f ngk sh -n-l z m)n. 1. The doctrine that the function of an object should determine its design and materials. 2. A doctrine stressing purpose, practicality, and utility. 3. Philosophy The doctrine in the philosophy of mind according to which mental states are defined by their causes and effects. func tion·al·ist adj. & n. |
functionalism [ˈfʌŋkʃənəˌlɪzəm]
n
1. (Fine Arts & Visual Arts / Architecture) the theory of design that the form of a thing should be determined by its use
2. any doctrine that stresses utility or purpose
3. (Psychology) Psychol a system of thought based on the premise that all mental processes derive from their usefulness to the organism in adapting to the environment
functionalist n & adj
func•tion•al•ism (ˈfʌŋk ʃə nlˌɪz əm)
n.
1. (often cap.)
a. a design movement evolved esp. in the early 20th century, advocating that form and design be determined by practical issues, as materials, construction, and purpose, with aesthetic effect subordinated to functionality.
b. the doctrines and practices associated with this movement.
2. a school of psychology that emphasizes the adaptiveness of mental and behavioral processes.
3. Sociol. a theoretical orientation that views society as a system of interdependent parts whose functions contribute to the stability and survival of the system.
[1910–15]
func′tion•al•ist, n., adj.
func`tion•al•is′tic, adj.
functionalism
a philosophy of architectural design rather than a separate style, expressed in Louis Sullivan’s “form follows function” and Le Corbu-sier’s concept of a house as a machine for living in, under the premise that buildings ought to express construction, materials, and accommodation of purpose, usually with the assumption that the result would be aesthetically significant. Also called structuralism. — functionalist, n., adj.
See also: Architecture
Thesaurus Legend: Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
| Noun | 1. | functionalism - a psychology based on the assumption that all mental process are useful to an organism in adapting to the environment scientific theory - a theory that explains scientific observations; "scientific theories must be falsifiable" psychological science, psychology - the science of mental life |
| 2. | functionalism - any doctrine that stresses utility or purpose doctrine, ism, philosophical system, philosophy, school of thought - a belief (or system of beliefs) accepted as authoritative by some group or school |
Translations
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