In 1960, Gabriel Almond and G. Bingham Powell applied the structural-functional approach in their work "Comparative Politics: A Developmental Approach," which was influenced by David Easton’s framework of political systems. Key Points: David Easton's Framework: David Easton introduced the concept of the political system as a set of interactions and processes that manage demands and supports within a society. His model emphasized how inputs (demands and supports) are processed into outputs (decisions and policies) within the political system. Easton's framework helped to analyze political phenomena as part of a larger system, focusing on the interdependence of various political components. Almond and Powell's Application: Almond and Powell adopted and expanded upon Easton’s framework by analyzing political systems through a structural-functional lens. They identified different structures (such as political parties, interest groups, and governmental institutions) and the functions they serve within the political system. They focused on how these structures contribute to political stability, social integration, and the development of political culture. Comparative Politics: In their work, Almond and Powell aimed to provide a comprehensive framework for understanding and comparing political systems across different cultures and developmental stages. Their structural-functional approach emphasized the roles and functions of various political institutions, and how they adapt to changes in society. By integrating Easton's ideas into their analysis, Almond and Powell contributed significantly to the study of comparative politics and reinforced the importance of a systematic, functional perspective in understanding political systems. Their work laid the groundwork for future research in comparative politics and the application of structural-functionalism in political analysis.
