functionalism

• PARSONS - organic analogy is society is like a body. all aspects of society need to be working in order for it to function
• PARSONS - universalistic values are values that are shared by all members of society and are considered to be morally right. these are taught in school
• PARSONS - school is the bridge from home to society
• PARSONS - meritocracy is a system where the most qualified people are given the most important positions, high achieving pupils are rewarded the best
• DURKHEIM - specialist skills ; to fill all aspects of societies jobs, people need to have specialized skills.
• DURKHEIM - (criticism) shared culture is difficult as we live in such a complex society.
• DURKHEIM - social solidarity

  • we need to have a degree of sameness
  • to bond people
  • schools exist to force us to commit to society and to teach us norms and values
  • pushed to follow rules
• DAVIS & MOORE - role allocation; students are matched to job roles due to their skills. the most talented need to fufill the highest roles in order for society to function
• DAVIS & MOORE - the myth of meritocracy

  • 'inequality is rooted when high demanding roles continue to be filled by the smartest'
  • hierachal system of reward
• CRITICISMS

  parsons;

  • wc are made to believe they are unable to reach mc roles - but it is just ascribed status.
  • meritocracy is a myth
  • false class consciousness
  • how do class inequalities persist if schools are meritocratic
• CRITICISMS

  davis & moore

  • nepotism in the middle class
• CRITICISMS

  durkeheim

  • societys complex structure makes a shared culture unachievable
• What is the functionalist term for institutions that teach norms and values?

  Agent of Socialisation
• What does the term Value Consensus refer to?

  Shared norms and values in society
• What does Social Solidarity mean?

  The feeling of being part of society