Abstract
This paper discusses the concepts of system differentiation and integration in Florestan Fernandes’ reflection regarding Brazil. After clarifying the distinction between the problems of system differentiation and integration and social differentiation/integration, it briefly presents how the former appears in Talcott Parsons’ normative functionalism, taken as an example of theoretical-comparative control. Finally, it analyzes how Fernandes creatively employs these concepts, comparing it with the previous discussion and in a critical dialogue with efforts to contextualize his work.
Keywords:
System Differentiation; System Integration; Modernity; Sociological Theory; Florestan Fernandes