Functionalist Stratification the Theory of Thesis

Open, View, and/or
Download this Document

Total Length: 674 words ( 2 double-spaced pages)

Total Sources: 4

Page 1 of 2

Using an example of engineers vs. unskilled laborers at a factory, Tumin asserts that while the unskilled laborers might appear more dispensable, over time their functions are just as vital to the operation of the factory, reducing Davis and Moore's claim to a fantasy world removed from the realities of forward-moving time (Tumin, 1953). The main problem with such a justification, however, is that functional importance is determined by the society after stratification, and the system will necessarily uphold its already present system of stratification and assigned importance values, thus perpetuating the status quo regardless of societal benefit (Tumin, 1953). Tumin goes on to point out other flaws with the functional stratification theory, but the main flaw he sees is its perpetuation of the status quo without real consideration (Tumin, 1953).

The theory of functional stratification is closely linked to that of meritocracy.

Stuck Writing Your "Functionalist Stratification the Theory Of" Thesis?

View All Our Example Functionalist Stratification the Theory of Thesis

Have A Custom Example Essay Written

John Andersen claims that meritocracy, a system whereby reward is based solely on performance, is an elusive aim of the functional stratification theory that is in fact totally unrelated to the growing power elite in the world (Andersen, 1999). Ostensibly, functional stratification operates as an automatic meritocracy, giving more rewards to those with more talent or more sacrifice in training. Tumin points out, however, that this "training" (in the form of higher education) most always comes at the expense of the parents, and thus seeing the rewards of better employment as payment for the student's sacrifice is untenable (Tumin, 1953). Andersen agrees, believing that the solidarity and protectionism of the elite classes has more to do with the way modern society is run than any system of meritocracy (Andersen, 1999)......

Show More ⇣

     Open the full completed essay and source list


OR

     Order a one-of-a-kind custom essay on this topic


sample essay writing service

Cite This Resource:

Latest APA Format (6th edition)

Copy Reference
"Functionalist Stratification The Theory Of" (2009, February 03) Retrieved June 4, 2026, from
https://www.aceyourpaper.com/essays/functionalist-stratification-theory-25095

Latest MLA Format (8th edition)

Copy Reference
"Functionalist Stratification The Theory Of" 03 February 2009. Web.4 June. 2026. <
https://www.aceyourpaper.com/essays/functionalist-stratification-theory-25095>

Latest Chicago Format (16th edition)

Copy Reference
"Functionalist Stratification The Theory Of", 03 February 2009, Accessed.4 June. 2026,
https://www.aceyourpaper.com/essays/functionalist-stratification-theory-25095
   

Open, View, and/or
Download this Document
order custom essay example