The Impact of a Mayor's Popularity After a Natural Disaster

Final answer:

Merton would view the rise in popularity of a mayor after a natural disaster as a manifest function based on their duty to care for the residents and their hard work.

Explanation:

According to Merton's functionalist perspective, he would view the rise in popularity of a mayor after a natural disaster as a manifest function. Merton defines manifest functions as the recognized and intended consequences of social actions. In this case, the mayor's duty to care for the residents during a natural disaster and their hard work and competence in managing the aftermath can be seen as contributing to the manifestation of their popularity. This popularity serves as a positive outcome for the mayor, reflecting their effective performance of their role in society.