Functionalism Flashcards
Functionalism?
Sociological theory made of various institutions which operates to serve an useful purpose.
What is Consensus?
A general agreement
Structural Consensus Theory
. It is argued that fuctionalism is a Structural Consensus Theory
. This is because there is a social structure that shapes individuals behaviour
. Behaviour is shaped through socialisation
. Functionalist believe that society is based on value consensus.
What is value consensus?
When people agree on a set of norms and values that exist in society
Durkheim
(Functionalism)
. Argued that society exist separate from the individual
. The individuals are constrained by social facts.
. He believe that individual freedom wasn’t good for society
What are the social facts?
. Beliefs
. Moral codes
. Basic values
Parson
(Functionalism)
. He viewed society as an analogous to the human body
. Institutions operate like organs, working together to form society. (Organic analogy)
Functionalist views in education
. Education has the role of secondary socialisation
. Education has the role of passing core social values
. Education has the role of allocation
. Functionalist suggest that education provides training for the skills needed for workplace
Durkheim
(Education)
. He argues that education passes on norms and values which are useful to integrate into society
. Education performs the role of creating social order
What is social order?
Based on consensus and social cohesion, education performs the role of strengthening social solidarity
Parson
(Education)
. He argues that the education system act as a bringe between family and adult roles
. He explores the concept of allocation within education
Role of allocation within education?
Based on meritocracy since ducation passes the values of achievement
Meritocracy
Social rewards are allocated base of talent, effort and work. This means that hardwork and equal opportunity produce the greatest rewards in education.
