WJEC Eduqas GCSE Sociology sample

Functionalist views on stratification It might seem a very strange idea: how can it be a good thing that there are groups in society that are very poor or have little power at all? For instance, homeless people would be at the very bottom of the society trifle, with little power, no wealth and very poor life- chances. How can this help society? The need for poverty Theory Like all sociologists, functionalists think very carefully about their ideas and arguments. Functionalists believe that societies have needs that must be met to keep them working. Functionalists say that society needs poverty as a form of motivation. Nobody wants to be poor, and this encourages people to work hard. The rewards that come with being at the upper levels of society make people want to work hard. Rewards Examples Some jobs are rewarded with high status and privilege, as well as lots of money! Status and prestige mean that the people who do the jobs are seen as very important and are to be respected. Examples of such jobs are top surgeons, lawyers, scientists and the prime minister. To become a successful doctor or lawyer, a person needs at least seven years of specific education and practice. Without great rewards, few people would dedicate themselves to such a long time in training. Social differentiation and stratification What do you notice about the cartoon? What do you think its message is? 126 Chapter 4 WHAT AM I GOING TO LEARN? To find out why functionalists think that stratification is a good thing for society. Starter ... Uptown Top Ranking Rank the following jobs in order of importance to society: refuse collector, lawyer, professional footballer, nurse, brain surgeon, GP, shop assistant, mother, teacher, scientist, politician, computer programmer, car mechanic, police officer, member of the royal family. CHECK IT ‘Rich people should have to give away all their extra wealth and possessions and share them out.’ Think of as many reasons as you can to justify why this statement is wrong. ✓