functionalism + education

Question 1

what is functionalism ?

Answer 1

a consensus theory that sees society as being essentially harmonious, all aspects of society work together to keep society stable and running smoothly

Question 2

sociologists?

Answer 2

• durkheim
• parsons
• davies and moore

Question 3

durkheim - education ?

Answer 3

• promotes social solidarity, shared norms and values and binds people together to follow universal rules and creates collective conscious
• education prepares young people for work and equips induviduals with specialist skills for modern economy

Question 4

durkheim evaluation ?

Answer 4

• hargreeves - education promotes individualism rather than binding people into social norms and values
• gorad suggests modern schools are too concerned with exams and results to be concerned with social solidarity

Question 5

parsons - secondary socialisation?

Answer 5

primary socialisation - in the family teaches children basic norms and values
secondary socialisation - teaches universalistic standards and acts as a bridge between family and wider society

Question 6

parsons - meritocracy ?

Answer 6

meritocratic society is based on the idea that everyone achieves their status through their own ability and that everyone has the equal opportunity to achieve their own potential.
- school is a mini meritocratic system preparing individuals for modern society and its economy by enforcing the idea that you will succeed if you work hard

Question 7

evaluation of parsons?

Answer 7

marxists suggest that theres a myth of meritocracy and that the education system and society in general dont give fair or equal treatment to all

Question 8

davies and moore - role allocation?

Answer 8

• the main role of education is role allocation and selection for future work roles
• for society to function the most talented individuals must have the most important jobs