Role of Education - Functionalist/New Right.

Functionalists believe society is a social system based on value consensus.

Durkheim sees two main functions of education.

- Social solidarity - shared values to feel part of a community. School prepares for life in wider society.

- Specialist skills - Taught through education. We need to co-operate and work together in complex division of labour in society.

Parsons.

School is a bridging gap between family and wider society.

Our status within family is ascribed. Roles in society have to be achieved. Education helps to achieve status.

Education sorts people according to ability. The most able get best qualifications so deserve entry into the best jobs.

Davies and Moore.

Education allocates future roles in society. Inequality ensures the most able get the best jobs.

Meritocracy = Everyone has an equal opportunity to…