FUNCTIONALISM AND EDUCATION

Name 3 Functionalist sociologists?

What does Durkheim believe the role of education is?

Note-Social solidarity- The sense of belonging of members of society stemming from shared values and common sense of identity.

1.Durkheim,parsons,Davis and Moore

Durkheim

• Education teaches shared values and norms

• Creates social solidarity

• Prepares pupils for the integration into society

What does parsons believe the role of education is?

Parsons

• School acts as a bridge from family to wider society

• Pupils judged by universalistic values which the meritocratic society is based upon

• Teaches Society is meritocratic giving hope to the working class for upward social mobility

(Marxists would argue this causes a false class consciousness by brainwashing students into believing they have equal chances for upward social mobility)

What does Davis and Moore believe the role of education is?

Davis & Moore

• Education sorts people by ability

• Most important jobs get highest rewards

• Inequality is necessary and functional

  (Marxists would argue it doesn’t take into consideration materialistic factors or external factors such as catchment areas)

What does Durkheim also say the role of education is?

Durkheim (skills)

• Modern society needs specialist skills

• Education teaches these skills for the economy

  (Marxists would argue this sustains capitalism by generating more obedient workers for the upper class.