There is a major debate in sociology between Functional and Conflict theories as to why stratification exists. The Functional argument is generally presented in the form of the Davis-Moore Thesis and the Conflict argument is generally presented by Karl Marx. You should have already found this discussion in your chapter. Here is a written summary of the Functional position:
Stratification is necessary for the functioning of society.
Some jobs are more important for the maintenance and well-being of society. For example, doctors, lawyers, and chief executives are more important than garbage collectors or lawn mowers.
These jobs should be filled by the most qualified people.
These important jobs require more skills and training, such as many years in school.
People have to be motivated to seek the skills and training, i.e., to go to school for all those years.
This motivation is primarily in the form of money (high salaries for these important jobs).
Thus, important jobs are paid more money than less important jobs. People would not be attracted to these important jobs if they were not paid so highly. Society would suffer since these jobs would go unfilled.
Now that you have read through these seven points, in your first post, I want you to play “devil’s advocate” and argue against Functional theory in your discussions. See if you can criticize every single point of those seven. Again, remember that you are not stating what your personal opinion is; you are engaging in an intellectual exercise to attack Functional theory. Then, in your final post/reply, you can tell us which theory you think is correct (your personal opinion)!!
So, what do you think?
Use the order calculator below and get started! Contact our live support team for any assistance or inquiry.
[order_calculator]