evaluate the view that while Marxist and functionalist approaches focus on similar issues, they reach very different conclusions about the role of education.

Question 1

Intro

Answer 1

Functionalists and Marxists both believe the education system benefits everyone, but have contrasting views on how they benefit society

Question 2

Point 1

Answer 2

Durkheim

• education system introduces the importance of social solidarity
• social life would be impossible without SS as people would pursue their own selfish desires
• example of this is through the teaching of History in the curriculum
• in the industrial society, the work place requires social solidarity and team work

Question 3

Point 2

Answer 3

Parsons

• education prepares us to enter the wider society
• due to school and society both being based on meritocracy and everyone has opportunity given their efforts
• argue it is linked with social inequality is necessary to ensure the most vital roles are filled

Question 4

point 3

Answer 4

Althusser

• says there are two ‘apparatuses’ keeping the bourgeoisie in power :repressive state (police, army and courts)
  and the ideological state (controls poeples values through media and education system)
• althusser says the educaiton system exploits people by creating an obedient workforce for the ruling class

Question 5

Point 4

Answer 5

Bowles and gintis

correspondence theory