Talcott Parsons was born on December 13, 1902, in Colorado, USA. From a young age, he showed a keen interest in a wide range of subjects, including biology, sociology, and philosophy. This diverse educational background would later shape his approach to sociological theory.
Parsons attended Amherst College, where he further developed his knowledge in the fields of biology, sociology, and philosophy. After completing his undergraduate studies, he continued his education at the London School of Economics and the University of Heidelberg, where he delved even deeper into the study of social sciences.
Upon completing his studies, Parsons set out to revolutionize the field of sociology by bringing together various theories of centuries past into a cohesive, structural-functional approach. He coined this approach "action theory," and it would become the foundation for his work in the field of sociology.
His groundbreaking first book, "The Structure of Social Action," published in the 1970s, was instrumental in laying the groundwork for integrating all social sciences into a unified theoretical framework. This work would have a lasting impact on the field of sociology for years to come.
Parsons was a devoted family man, having two daughters and a son with his wife, Helen Bancroft Walker. His son, Charles Dacre Parsons, would later follow in his footsteps and become a professor of sociology, continuing his father's legacy in the field.
Throughout his career, Parsons was influenced by a wide range of thinkers, including the philosopher Immanuel Kant. These influences shaped his approach to sociological theory and helped him develop his unique perspective on the study of society.
Overall, Talcott Parsons left a lasting impact on the field of sociology through his innovative approach to social theory and his contributions to integrating various disciplines into a unified framework. His work continues to be studied and revered in academic circles, cementing his legacy as one of the most influential sociologists of the 20th century.