Compare and contrast two diffe
Compare and contrast two different perspectives in Sociology.Sociological theories and perspectives aim to explain or understand the way in which society functions. Functionalism and Marxism are two different perspectives in Sociology. This essay will compare and contrast the perspectives of functionalism and Marxism, outlining their key points and evaluating their usefulness as a sociological approach.Firstly we will look at Functionalism, which is fundamentally based on the works of Emile Durkheim (1858-1917). Functionalism is a structural based sociological theory, where societies are regarded as whole entities. Functionalists believe that all elements within society interconnect and work together. The main focus of functionalism is to examine and clarify exactly how social order is maintained within that society, looking at each part of society and understanding how their individual roles contribute towards society as a whole. It is believed that if one of these elements was altered or removed, then the system as an entirety would be affected, however the system is very capable at dealing with changes. "Society will always function in harmony, as it will accommodate change, by changing itself" (www.revision-notes.co.uk
Capitalists believe that it is vital to society for these different groups to be produced from the education system as this means workers will accept the capitalist structure. Education also socialises children into the common values of society, teaching moral behaviour and ensuring the understanding of different religious beliefs, turning them into members of that society. It appears as if the views of the majority are influencing the minority. However, it can be argued that it is simply not possible for society to interconnect as some elements are not compatible with others, and if, like the functionalist theory, society changes to accommodate change, what is the explanation for the conflict and disruption that occurs throughout the nation? Although the Marxist theory offers a useful insight into the conflict of class, it regards "everything in society as being determined by your economic or class position" (class handout, Structural Marxism). Both the functionalist and Marxist perspectives contribute different attributes to society. Education plays a vital part in the socialisation process. Individuals are disregarded and the ability to make a decision of ones own is taken away. Marxist theorists see classes as being determined by the social status and the capital of a person. The ideology is that children should be well-mannered, considerate and punctual. html 04 February 2004 http://www.
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