Functionalism

Question 1

Functionalist Perspective

Answer 1

Suggest society operates like a living organism (organic analogy) where each area of society has a function within the system

Social inequality is necessary and required for society to function

Inequality in society exists to motivate the most talented people to work hard for the jobs with the best reward

Society is run. by the most talented and motivated people

Question 2

Social Darwinism

Answer 2

This is based on survival of the fittest

The most able (fittest) rise to the top, the least able fall to the bottom

Question 3

Francis Galton
Hereditary Genius

Answer 3

Eugenics is a way of explaining inequality

The poorest in society are a different ‘breed’ or human, poverty is a result of inherited genetic defects

Some people are ‘feebleminded’ and these become the poorest in society

The most able are genetically superior and become wealthier than the poorest and least able

Question 4

Durkheim
Complex Division of Labour

Answer 4

Argued the move from mechanical to organic solidarity is a key factor of inequality

Mechanical Solidarity (basic):
-based on family ties, common values and beliefs, people work together for the good of society
-inequality is low

Organic Solidarity (complex):
-people are dependent on each other and perform different tasks and have different values and interests
-people depend on each other to perform their individual tasks; division of labour
-inequality is high

Question 5

Durkheim
Inherited Wealth “Abnormal”

Answer 5

Inequalities based on ascription or inheritance as ‘abnormal’, as they’re not meritocratic

Inequalities in wealth and privilege should respond to differences in people’s ability

He advocated an inheritance tax that would eliminate the passing of wealth across generation.

Question 6

Parsons
Value Consensus & Inequality

Answer 6

Inequality is the result of an agreement in society about how roles should be ranked by importance

Inequality is inevitable because people agree on the ranking (value consensus)

Those in higher positions of society organise the activities of those in lower positions and have greater power, status and wealth

The relationship between groups is based on cooperation and interdependence

Question 7

Davis & Moore
Inequality & Role Allocation

Answer 7

4 key aspects of social inequality:

1. there are no completely equal societies; all rely on stratification of class of some kind because inequality is a normal and universal social phenomenon
2. inequality is a way of making sure that all roles and positions are filled by the most capable
3. not all social positions are equally important, there must be rewards that encourage the best people to do the most important jobs
4. the most important positions are the best rewarded and the least important positions are poorly rewarded, pay and status therefore reflects a persons value to society

Question 8

Barber
Professions & Inequality

Answer 8

The roles and rewards offered to higher professionals are a significant reason for inequality

Professionalism requires specialised knowledge, only a few in society have

High rewards received by professionals, like high status, are a symbol of achievement - they reflect the high regard and value of their contribution to society

Professionals make an important contribution to society - they are highly rewarded because their role has value