An institution is a system that is a collective set of efforts of individuals for carrying out certain functions. In sociological terms, even family is an institution. In fact, it is the most basic form of institution that is supposed to groom an individual and nurture him/her until they are ready to take on their roles in the practical world. This basic institution teaches them respect for authority, protects them, provides for them and trains them about the ways of the world so that they may better take up on their roles in the world. Other examples of institutions are schools which provide education, correctional facilities, hospitals, etc.
