Which perspective argues that family forms are determined by historical and social contexts?

The perspective that argues family forms are determined by historical and social contexts is Marxism. This viewpoint asserts that the structure and function of the family are influenced by the economic system and class relations present in society. Marxists emphasize the role of the material conditions and the means of production in shaping familial arrangements. They believe that changes in the economy, such as transitions from feudalism to capitalism, significantly impact family structures.

For instance, in a capitalist society, families may take on different roles based on economic needs, such as the nuclear family emerging as a unit geared towards production and consumerism. This perspective highlights the ways in which societal forces, including class conflict and economic interests, shape the experiences and dynamics within families, demonstrating that family forms cannot be understood in isolation but rather must be examined within their broader historical and social context.