Functionalism (international relations)

Functionalism is when countries work together to solve problems that affect the whole world, like pollution or disease. It's like when you and your friends work together to clean up a mess in your classroom. Each of you has different skills and abilities, but when you work together, you can do more than you could alone.

In international relations, functionalism means that countries should focus on specific issues where they can work together to make a difference. This could be things like trade, transportation, or education. Functionalism theorists believe that by solving these specific issues, countries can build trust and cooperation, and ultimately work towards a more peaceful and prosperous world.

Functionalism is kind of like building a puzzle. Each country has a different piece to contribute, and when they work together, they can create something that's greater than any one piece on its own.