Functionalism

Question 1

Overall Perspective:

Answer 1

Social inequality is neccessary and required for society to function.
Argue that inequality is society exists to motivate the most talented people to work hard for the jobs with the best rewards. This is known as meritocracy

Question 2

What is meant by social stratification?

Answer 2

Used to describe structures of social inequality, how some people are poor, whilst others are rich. Some people have higher positions others have lower positions.

Question 3

The origins of functionalism:

Answer 3

Within the idea of social darwinism.
Darwinism= survival of the fittest
Most able rise to the top

Question 4

Galton: Eugenics

Answer 4

Eugenics= ability linked to the gene.
Poverty is a result of the genes, says that people are ‘feeble-minded’ and become the poorest in society.

Question 5

Durkheim: Complex divison of labour

Answer 5

Move from organic sol to mechanic sol= key aspect of inequality
Mechanical= inequality is low, society is based on basic family ties.
Organic= inequality is high, everyone has different roles and values.

Question 6

Durkheim: Functionality of Inequality

Answer 6

Inequality is accepted and beneficial to social order due to worth consensus.
Stratification ensures people do not get overly ambitious.

Question 7

Durkheim: Inherited Wealth

Answer 7

Inequalities based on ascription or inheritance are ‘abnormal’ as they are not meritocratic.
Inheritance tax is neccessary as inherited wealth is abnormal.

Question 8

Parsons: Value Consensus and Inequality

Answer 8

Inequal= result of an agreement in society about how roles should be ranked by importance.
It is inevitable because people agree on ranking
Those in higher positions organise the activities of the lower positions and have great power, status and wealth.
Relationships between groups based on cooperation and interdependence

Question 9

Davis and Moore: Inequality and Role Allocation

Answer 9

4 key aspects of social inequality:
1. Inequality is normal and universal, all societies have evidence of it and rely on stratification of class
2. Inequality is necessary for effective role allocation
3. There must be rewards that encourage people to take the most important jobs
4. Pay and status reflect someone’s importance to society

Question 10

Barber: Professions and Inequality

Answer 10

Roles and rewards offered to higher professionals are a significant reason for inequality. Professionalism requires specialized knowledge; they have the highest rewards which are symbols of their contribution. This is the main cause of inequality

Question 11

Strengths:

Answer 11

Generally, highest skills do have the highest positions and vice versa.
Higher professionals do have higher salaries- also have unique skills.
Moral consensus is true- every role in society is filled.

Question 12

Weaknesses:

Answer 12

Does not consider gender and ethnic inequality
Does not consider that society may not be meritocratic
Assumes we all have equal chances
Assumes everyone is motivated by money, does not consider people settling for low-paid jobs that they are passionate for.