Functionalism Revision Flashcards
Consensus Theory
holds that individuals in a society agree on basic values, on what is inherently right and wrong and that laws express these values
social solidarity
Interdependence between individuals in a society
social order
Societies remain sufficiently stable to enable co-ordinated, productive and cultural activity
Anomie
lack of the usual social or ethical standards in an individual or group
equality of opportunity
giving people an equal chance to succeed
Meritocracy
social stratification based on personal merit
Universalistic values
Values that apply to everyone, regardless of their particular situation. The idea that everyone is equal under the law is an example of a universalistic value.
Particularistic values
Rules/values that only apply to certain individuals
collective consciousness
the shared norms, values, and beliefs of a society
achieved status
A social position that a person attains largely through his or her own efforts
ascribed status
a status into which one is born; involuntary status
