William J Goode’s article “The Theoretical Importance of the Family,” explores from a functionalist point of view, what defines a family, how the family is a part of a larger social network, and how the family is a mediator between the individual self and society. Many analysts report that the family is declining in regards to no longer performing in areas of production, education, protection. Goode contends that in spite of what one may conclude “that the family is on its way out”, this may be an assumption or blind speculation. He states that marriage has increased and is at a higher rate than any other time in history of the world and people are as likely as ever to take part in family life. Therefore, the family should be studied with theoretical guidance along with facts and in the same way as any other scientific endeavor. Family structure and family roles have been studied throughout time. Although there has been attempts to change society and family through religion, utopia, or revolutionary movements, most have failed. The family in modern times still have continued the traditional rights and obligations of the family. Though there are aspects of some families that appears unstable, the family system overall still remains tough and resilient. Goode points out two main themes in his reading; the relations between family members, and the relations between the family and society. First, family is made up of individuals that are part of a larger social network. Family is formally developed in all societies, the only other social institution that is formally developed is religion. Second, many people feel that a traditional family consists of a man (father), a woman (mother), and children. Goode seems to leans toward the traditional family model. He believes that the more a family deviates from “traditional” family norms, the less likely they will fit into society. However, I feel that we are seeing and experiencin