Functionalism

Question 1

Functionalist sociologists

Answer 1

Durkheim
Parsons
Davies and Moore

Question 2

Durkheim

Answer 2

2 Functions:

1) Promotes social solidarity through transmission of shared values and beliefs being passed on to the next generation. School acts as a miniature society preparing students for wider life ie) punctuality + following instructions.
2) Passes on specialist skills - like vocational skills employers now require due to the complex division of labour.

Question 3

Criticisms of Durkheim

Answer 3

Marxists- Just transmits Ruling Class ideology, not shared values.

Question 4

Parsons

Answer 4

2 Functions:

1) Bridge b/w family and wider society - family gives us ascribed status based on a pluralistic view vs wider society which has meritocratic status and individualist view so status is achieved. Education uses the same meritocratic system to prepare individuals for wider life.
2) Promotes social solidarity- after family is the second main socialising agency.

Question 5

Criticism of Parsons

Answer 5

Education isn’t meritocratic and fair, there’s evidence factors like class, ethnicity and gender impact achievement.
Deterministic- assumes students passively accept the values the school promotes.

Question 6

Davies and Moore

Answer 6

Function:
Role allocation - Prepare individuals for work life in wider world as those who are the most talented should get the best, highest paying jobs. This is shown via receiving the highest education qualifications.

Question 7

Criticisms of Davies and Moore

Answer 7

New Right- Claim education system fails to perform this function as its run by the state (government).