Explain the organic analogy used by Durkheim in his theory of society

The organic analogy is used by Durkheim in his functionalist theory of society and the way in which it functions. Society functions much like the body, it is an organic system that is self maintained and self supporting and helps in maintaining other aspects of society. So the various institutions act as organs do in the body. For example the education system acts as a tool to socialise children in to the dominant views of society and to perform as well functioning members of society, this helps supply the workforce (the economy), support the family by providing secondary socialisation, and prepares children for their future roles in society. This view is one of consensus and is the basis of not only all functionalist thought but influences the more modern view of the New Right.This could be critiqued with a Marxist point of view. It could be said that society is actually more of a base superstructure model, rather than institutions supporting one another they support the economy and the roles and functions of the society as a capitalist regime that is oppressing the proletariat.