Functionalist Perspective

Functionalists see education as a positive institution that benefits society by maintaining social order.

Durkheim (Social Solidarity & specialist Skills)

• Education creates a sense of belonging and unity (social solidarity).

• Prepares individuals for their roles in the workforce by teaching specialist skills.

Parsons (Bridge Between Family and Society)

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

• Family = particularistic standards, but education and society = universalistic standards.

• Education promotes meritocracy (success based on ability and effort).

Davis and Moore (Role Allocation)

• Education sorts individuals into appropriate roles based on ability.

• Ensures the most talented individuals fill the most important roles (role allocation).

Criticisms:

• Ignores inequalities (class, gender, ethnicity).

• Assumes meritocracy exists, but evidence suggests otherwise.