Sociological perspectives Flashcards
What do functionalists believe
Believe that society is based upon value consensus
The family has a crucial role in achieving value consensus as it socialises members into society and allows society to achieve its goals
What are Murdocks four main functions of the family
Sexual- expression of sexuality in socially approved context
Reproduction- provides stability for the reproduction and raising of children
Socialisation- family teaches children the norms and values of society
Economic- the family provides food and shelter for the family members
Criticism of Murdock
Could other institutions perform the same functions which have traditionally been associated with the family
Parsons view on the family (functionalism)
The functions of the family are related to the society it is found in»_space; the functions of the family affect its structure
The two primary structures are nuclear and extended
What are the criticisms of functionalism
Downplays/ ignores conflict
Out of date
Ignores the exploitation of women
Ignores the harmful effects of the family
What is the new right view on family
Strongly in favour of the conventional nuclear family with clearly defined roles for male and female
Sociological perspective around during the last 50 years or so
Believe that the ‘family plays a key role in shaping the moral order (providing children with discipline and responsibility) of society’
Which of the following policies do the new right argue have contributed to the break down in nuclear families
Divorce reform act- cheaper divorces and less complicated processes
Equal pay act- women should have equal pay as men if in same role
Same sex marriage- is legalised
What is butlers theory about broken families
Broken families are more likely to produce children who break the law, be unemployed and/ or depend on benefits. This could be because of lack of positive male role models
What is the Marxist view on family
Argues that the functions of the family are solely for the benefits of the capitalist system
Suggested that the nuclear family rose in prominence to meet the needs of capitalism and the ruling class
What does Althusser say about capitalism
For capitalism to survive, the working class must submit to the ruling class The family is one of the ideological state apparatus
What does Hegemony say (Marxism)
For a class revolution, the proletariat would need to become aware of their role within society (class consciousness) however ruling class ideology prevents change and creates a false class consciousness
Marxism and ideological functions of the family
Through socialisation we are taught our ‘place’ in society
Children are taught to respect and obey individuals who are in a position of authority compared to us
Suggests that this Prepares us for the roles within the workplace within the capitalist system
Unit of consumption
Capitalism exploits workers by selling the products that their labour produces for more than it pays them to produce it in the first place
What do Marxist feminists believe
Role of family is to maintain the patriarchy and capitalist society
Main cause of female oppression is capitalism rather than men
What do liberal feminists believe
Emphasis is placed upon achieving legal equality
Believe that the oppression of women is gradually improving through the changing attitudes in society and changing laws
Like march of progress view
