Patterns and trends: Social class inequality: Functionalist

Question 1

What does Parsons say about value consensus and stratification ?

Answer 1

• Society works best when there is an agreement over shared values
• Social class is an example of value consensus
• Some social classes are rewarded for being better than others, rather than being awarded for achieving things
• An entrepreneur and executives run businesses which create wealth and jobs
• These top jobs deserve the most reward as they contribute the most to society

Question 2

What is Davis and Moore’s study about the principles of social stratification ?

Answer 2

Stratification is needed for society to function
Two functions:
1. Allocates the right people to the most important jobs:
- Most important roles are filled by the most capable
- People are motivated for these roles by having higher rewards (income + status)
2. It ensures these roles are performed to high standards

Question 3

What did Davis and Moore say about the factors that indicate the importance of positions ?

Answer 3

1. Functional uniqueness: Only a few talented people can do this role
   E.g. A heart surgeon
2. Dependence on others: Needing experts and managers to guide others

Question 4

What were Tumin’s criticisms of Davis and Moore ?

Answer 4

• It isn’t possible to determine the functional importance of most jobs
• It isn’t clear that the highest paid people have the most talent
• Some people may have the most talent but not the opportunity to show it (life chances)
• Tumin argues that there are other motivations besides money - jobs that benefit others
• Says that high pay for managerial jobs show the pather rather than the agreement of wage from society