Sociology Paper one information

Sociology Evidence

Family-

Functionalists:

Theory- The role of men has changed so much in society that there is a ‘New Man’ traditionally masculine roles in the family have changed with them

GP Murdock- Family has 4 functions; Economic, Education, Sexual Reproduction, because of this the best type of family is the nuclear family as it can provide all of these functions.

Durkheim- Organic analogy, the theory that the family exists as an organ within the ‘body’ of society as an ‘organ’ and is therefore necessary and functions the best as a nuclear family.

Parsons- The role of the family has changed over time, but it is still responsible for the primary socialisation of children and the stabilisation of adult personalities, the nuclear family is the best for this.

         Feminists:

Ann Oakley- There is no evidence of a symmetrical family, meaning that women and men do not have equal roles, men and women are taught these roles from birth (men being superior). There is a double burden put upon the family, meaning that the woman has to do domestic and financial work while men only have to provide the financial support to the family.

Sue Sharpe- The desires of women has changed from the 1970’s (wanting a family) to the 1990’s (wanting a career), showing the influence of feminists on the family.  

Delphy and Leonard- Family is a patriarchal construct, women have to contribute more than the men do.

         Marxists:

Zaretsky- The Cult of Family Life states that the only way for people to be happy and accept the cruel working conditions of the poor is through having a family to go home to. The family also perpetuates consumerism, the desire to spend money, for example through children wanting toys, however at the same time children are brought up to accept authority and not go against the rich.

Marx- Claims that all parts of life are controlled by the wealthy, including the family.

         New Right:

Theory- Young men cause crime, the underclass is the bottom of society, benefits are wrong and shouldn’t exist, divorce should not happen (even if…