The second postulate of universal functionalism. Approved that all standardized social and cultural forms and structures you perform positive functions. Merton proved that it contradicts the fact that we see in the real world. It is clear that not every structure, custom, idea ubide tion, and so forth performs a positive function. For example, violent nationalism can be highly dysfunctional in a world of rapidly expanding cores tion of weapons.
The third postulate - the postulate of necessity. It is argued that all standardized aspects of society not only perform positive functions but also constitute the necessary elements of the functioning of the whole. This postulate leads to the idea that all structures and functions are functionally necessary for society. No other structures and functions could not work as effectively as those found in society at present. Criticizing Parsons, Merton argued that we, at least, must be ready to recognize the existence in society of structural and functional al alternatives.
According to Merton, all of these functional postulates are based on not empirical statements, based on the abstract-theoretical systems The duty of the sociologist to at least study each of them empirically The confidence of Merton that empirical testing rather than theoretical approval is crucial for the functional analysis led it to develop a "paradigm" of functional analysis, combining theory and research.
Merton, from the outset, explained that the structural-functional analysis looks at groups, organizations, society and culture. He argued that any object that may be subject to structural-functional analysis is to "provide a standardized (i.e. patterned and recurring phenomenon)"