Fundamental Theory of Social Inequality Flashcards
What is Parsons’ view on social class inequality?
Inequality is inevitable in a social system that requires order and ranking, based on value consensus regarding who deserves the highest rewards.
What values contribute to social class inequality according to Parsons?
The values are kinship, achievement, possessions, personal qualities, and authority.
How does Durkheim view the role of social class inequality?
Class stratification exists because it is beneficial to social order, allowing for a specialized division of labor.
What does Durkheim mean by ‘value consensus’?
Members accept the legitimacy of stratification, which sets limits on competition and aspirations.
What is the functionalist perspective of Davis and Moore on social class inequality?
Effective role allocation allows the most important positions to be filled by the most talented, with high rewards motivating performance.
What does Durkheim say about class inequalities and societal stability?
Class inequalities reflect dysfunction; a stable society needs a healthy level of inequality.
What is Murdock’s explanation for gender inequality?
Gender inequality results from biological differences that lead to socially constructed roles.
How does Parsons explain socialization into gender roles?
Women are socialized into expressive roles, while men are socialized into instrumental roles related to work.
What is the role of women in primary socialization according to Parsons and Bales?
Women provide primary socialization for children and personality stabilization for adult family members.
What does Rastogi say about gender inequalities in work?
The pay gap between younger men and women is negligible, but manifests post-30 due to differing work commitments.
What does Patterson say about ethnic inequality?
Ethnic inequality is temporary and results from minorities failing to assimilate into the dominant culture.
What outcomes have resulted from successful assimilation according to Parsons & Clark?
Over time, stigma associated with skin color diminishes, leading to successful integration of minorities.
What does Roberts argue about ethnic inequality?
Ethnic inequality is a by-product of cultural factors, with disparities in outcomes among minority groups.
What is Modood et al.’s view on ethnic minorities and economic status?
It is normal for minorities to be at the bottom of the economic ladder as they descend from migrants.
What does Parsons say about age inequality for the elderly?
Elderly individuals disengage from central roles to allow younger generations to take control of family and society.
What is the Cumming & Henry perspective on age inequality?
The elderly are encouraged to socially disengage to allow younger generations to participate in the labor market.
What does Eisenstadt say about age inequality for the young?
Youth must transition from childhood to adulthood, which involves breaking away from the family home.
How does Durkheim relate age inequality to anomie?
Rapid societal changes lead to anomie, causing individuals to feel lost and socially excluded.
