Functionalist Theories Of Ineqality Flashcards
What do functionalist believe
Differences in society exist due to wealth power and status and prestige exist to motivate the most talented people to work hard for the jobs with the best reward( meritocracy). Suggest society is run by the most talented people and that benefit us all. It also implies that those who fail to achieve the highest positions are lacking in some way.
Social Darwinism (Herbert Spencer)
Described the idea of survival of the fittest In the animal kingdom and he claimed that the strongest members of series were those who would survive to breed.all Darwinist theories had a common belief that the strongest people in society should become wealthy and powerful whereas the weak should be punished and controlled in some way.
The Davi’s and Moore theory
There is inequality in all societies so inequality must be necessary for societies to function and develop. Inequality is good because it exists in all societies. Not all social positions are equally pleasant or important to the success of society so there must e rewards to encourage people to do important jobs.
Criticisms of Davi’s and moores theory
Circular theory. It is difficult to decide the functional importance of any job. Popular musicians earn more than doctors or nurses. Those that are top in society are not always the best for the job birth wealth also play a role. Some people do not want wealth or status and others are not pushed to achieve by desire for money because they have motives of their own.TUMIN- one of the major critics of Davi’s and moors thesis argues that they provide rich people with an ideology that justifies their greed and selfishness. FEMINISM- gender inequality I built into social structures to the point thst many people do not recognise it occurs. MARXISM- there is limited or no chance for people from the poorest sections of society to move up in society regardless of ability.
Reaserch evidence rejecting functionalism
Reardon - using official stats has suggested that there is an increasing correlation between the parental income and test scores of USA children. The children of richer parents achieve higher than the children of poorer parents.
Durkheim
Organic analogy. Everyone needs to play their part. Value consensus- society operates on shared values and social cohesion.
Tumin
Criticises Davi’s and Moore. D&Ms assumption that some positions are more important than others is subjective. Who decides which roles are important. Ignores how strat limits access to opportunities for certain groups. Strat can lead to resentment and conflict rather than promoting social solidarity.
The American dream
The idea that anyone can experience upward social mobility if they work hard enough
Is the American dream achievable
. Education debt have increased
. Housing prices increased
. Healthcare costs uncertainties
. Less likely to have guaranteed health pension
. Retirement support smaller
