lesson 1 Flashcards
What is consensus ?
Theories which argue that current social system benefits all members of a society
What is a conflict theory ?
Social order is maintained because of unequal power relations
What is an example of a consensus theory ?
- functionalism
- new right
What is an example of a conflict theory ?
- Marxism
- Feminism
What are the 4 main parts of the functionalist view ?
- modernist
- macro
- structuralist
- believes in consensus
What does macro mean ?
society influencing individuals
What is one of Parson’s main statements ?
Society is similar to the functioning of the body.
Needs must be met by each organ or institution
What did parson’s say about value consensus ?
- creates order and cooperation
- This is achieved through: socialisation and social control
What did parson’s say about system needs ?
4 key needs of society:
1. Goal attainment - setting and meeting goals to achieve (instrumental)
2. Adaptation - meeting the material needs of its members (instrumental)
3. integration - institutions working together to meet shared goals. Family and school prepare children for adult life (expressive)
4. Latency - the process of keeping the whole system functioning over time = socialisation (expressive)
What does Parsons say about societal change ?
Society changes when new functions or needs emerge
- Traditional society = individuals with fixed status belong to a kinship system which performs many functions
- Modern society = individuals with achieved status have small and weak kinship networks with limited purpose. People have specific roles
What does Hayek say ?
- new right
- criticized labour for introducing too many welfare benefits
What does Charles Murray say ?
- excessive investment to try and alleviate poverty by providing underclass with benefits
- led to a dependency culture
- more poor-lone-parent famillies
