Planning for Rural Community Development from the Perspective of Functional-Structural Theory: A Socio-Political Approach

Abstract: Development is essential for all societal segments, having evolved through various stages that shaped its concept and led to the emergence of new models, especially in developing countries. Social theories, like functionalism, often address challenges to community growth, prompting nations to adopt planning as a key tool for development. This study highlights the role of planning in rural community development from the functionalist perspective, examining its ideas, approaches, and relevance to achieving growth comparable to advanced urban areas. It concludes that functionalist theory remains highly influential, offering practical models for decision-making and adaptation within institutions, despite facing criticisms. These models are particularly successful in the United States. Keywords: Development, Planning, Functional Structuralism Theory, Rural Communities, Development Models.