The working papers in Subsystems of American Society document conceptual developments based on Parsons' famous four-function paradigm. The included chapters analyze the American economy, polity, and societal community. They represent Parsons' first attempt to apply the four-function paradigm to the understanding of a complex modern society with highly differentiated institutional structures. As such, they clarify important developments in 20th century sociological theory as well as underscoring Parsons' insightful understanding of American society.