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 say the role of education is?

• Education acts as a bridge between the family and wider society.

• In the family, children are judged by particularistic standards (different rules for different family members).

• In school, children are judged by universalistic standards (the same rules apply to everyone).

• Education teaches shared values and norms, helping create social cohesion.

• Schools prepare young people for their future roles in society.

  ( Marxists would argue this socialises children into accepting subordinate roles in the workforce)

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.