functionalism

func·tion·al·ism  (fngksh-n-lzm)

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.

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function·al·ist adj. & n.

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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

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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

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

functionalism [ˈfʌŋkʃnəlɪzəm] N → funcionalismo m

functionalism [ˈfʌŋkʃ^ənəlɪzəm] n [design] → fonctionnalisme m

functionalism

n → Funktionalismus m