Functionalist theories of inequality
- Created by: jesskeayy
- Created on: 07-06-17 17:30
View mindmap
- Functionalist theories of inequality
- Inequality is functional in society, as the intelligent in society will rise to the top
- Meritocracy allows us to have social mobility and be equally repaid for our hard work
- Those that fail to achieve fail because they do not want to, they're somewhat lacking in ability and talent
- Social Darwin Theory
- Idea that the most intelligent and strongest people will become the wealthiest and most powerful in society
- Conveys the idea that the weak should be punished for their underachievements
- Davis-Moore Theory
- Attempts to explain inequality in economic terms
- Inequality is essential for societies to function and develop
- Inequality must be good if it exists in all societies
- Without the reward of social mobility and wealth, no one would seek to achieve anything in society
- Pay and status reflect a person's position in society
- CRITICISMS
- Who can decide the importance of a job within society. Celebs paid more than doctors and nurses who save the lives of millions
- Many wealthy are born into wealth, they often have not earned it, so the most powerful don't always earn it through meritocracy
- Theory provides an excuse for the rich to be greedy and selfish. They believe they are morally right because of their powerful position
- Many do not want to achieve because of money, but due to their social position and personal factors
- Inequality is functional in society, as the intelligent in society will rise to the top
Comments
Report