C3: Functionalist theories of social inequality

Summary

Functionalist theories of social inequality view society as an organism where each part contributes to overall stability. Stratification is seen as essential for maintaining social order, with inequality providing motivation and rewarding talent. Functionalists argue that high income inequality boosts competition and economic growth. However, critics, including Marxists and feminists, argue that functionalism justifies inequality, dismisses social mobility, and overlooks discrimination. They claim meritocracy is a myth and that inequality often leads to negative societal outcomes. The functionalist theory's circular logic, where outcomes justify the cause, is also heavily criticized.

Takeaways

• 😀 Functionalists view society as an organism, with each part (social institution) fulfilling a function that contributes to the stability and well-being of the whole.
• 😀 Social stratification, which exists in all societies, is seen by functionalists as essential for social stability, helping place individuals in roles based on their abilities.
• 😀 Functionalism argues that inequality in society is beneficial, as it motivates individuals to strive for success and promotes economic growth.
• 😀 Meritocracy is central to functionalist theory: societies like the US and UK are seen as meritocratic, where individuals rise based on their talents and achievements.
• 😀 Functionalist thinkers, such as Davis and Moore, argue that income inequality is a positive factor, offering rewards to those in high-demand, high-skill occupations.
• 😀 The concept of the 'American Dream' reflects the functionalist idea that social mobility and competition are fundamental to the values of societies like the US.
• 😀 Social institutions, particularly education, are seen as tools for allocating individuals to appropriate occupational roles, ensuring a fair and efficient society.
• 😀 According to functionalists, high-status jobs deserve high rewards, as they are seen as more functionally important to the smooth operation of society.
• 😀 Critics, especially Marxists, argue that functionalism serves to justify the greed of the wealthy and overlooks systemic barriers that limit social mobility.
• 😀 Feminists and critical race theorists criticize functionalism for ignoring how gender and ethnic discrimination undermine the fairness and meritocracy claimed by functionalists.

Q & A

What is the functionalist perspective on society?

Functionalists view society as an organism, with different institutions and social practices fulfilling specific functions that contribute to the overall stability and well-being of society. Each part of society plays a role, much like how the organs of the human body work together.

How do functionalists explain social stratification?

Functionalists argue that social stratification is a necessary feature of all societies. It helps organize individuals into different roles based on their abilities, ensuring that society operates efficiently. Stratification is seen as a functional prerequisite, contributing to stability by placing people in positions suited to their skills.

What do functionalists mean by the term 'function'?

In functionalist theory, a 'function' refers to the beneficial consequences of an action or practice. For example, the act of drinking coffee in the morning has functions like helping people wake up, increasing focus, and providing an energy boost.

How do functionalists view income inequality?

Functionalists, particularly Davis and Moore, argue that income inequality is a positive aspect of society. They believe it motivates individuals to pursue higher education and training, which in turn leads to higher productivity and economic growth, benefiting society as a whole.

What is the role of education according to functionalism?

Education plays a critical role in functionalism by allocating individuals to occupational roles based on their abilities. It helps match people with jobs that suit their talents, ensuring a fair and meritocratic distribution of roles, which is essential for the smooth functioning of society.

What is the 'American Dream' and how does it relate to functionalism?

The 'American Dream' represents a set of values in capitalist societies, such as individual achievement, competition, and material success. From a functionalist perspective, this value system reinforces social order by encouraging individuals to strive for success and accept their social position as fair and just, based on their abilities and effort.

How do functionalists view the relationship between social stratification and social stability?

Functionalists argue that social stratification contributes to social stability by ensuring that individuals accept their positions within society. They believe that if people are socialized to understand the roles they occupy, it promotes social order, reducing conflict and maintaining stability.

What are some criticisms of the functionalist view on social inequality?

Critics, such as Marxists, argue that functionalism justifies inequality by presenting it as beneficial, while in reality, it serves the interests of the wealthy. They also challenge the notion of meritocracy, arguing that social mobility is limited and the system is rigged in favor of the elite. Feminists and critical race theorists further criticize functionalism for ignoring the role of gender and racial discrimination in perpetuating inequality.

What do Marxists say about the idea of meritocracy in functionalism?

Marxists argue that the concept of meritocracy, central to the functionalist view, is a myth. They claim that society is not an open, competitive system but rather one where the wealthy and powerful maintain their positions through inherited privilege and structural inequalities.

What is the circular argument flaw in functionalist theory?

The circular argument flaw in functionalism occurs when theorists argue that social stratification exists because it serves beneficial functions. This reasoning is flawed because it treats the effect (the benefits of stratification) as the cause, while ignoring the fact that the system of stratification must first exist before its effects can be observed.