Sociology

Sociology Study Guide

Class divisions, real and perceived differences between classes, exist when rewards are different between classes, whenmembers are aware of those differences, and when the ability and opportunity to move to a better class is limited. Social mobility is the upward or downward movement from one social class to another. There are several types of movement: • Upward mobility: Aided by industrial development and education; seen as a product of geographic mobility and urbanization. • Downward mobility: Caused by a lack of those things that lead to upward mobility, like formal education. • Horizontal mobility: Involves a social change while retaining the same social status. • Intergenerational mobility: How an individual’s status compares to his or her parents’. • Intragenerational mobility: How an individual’s status changes during the course of his orher life. • Structural mobility: Caused by changes in the economy and not due to individual achievement. • Exchange mobility: Occurs when people at different hierarchical levels exchange places. Theories Concerning Social Mobility Several theories have been put forth, as always in science, to explain phenomenon. The following theories each have their strengths and rely on at least one tenant that is thought by the majority of social thinkersto be acceptable or truthful. Conflict Theory: Karl Marx put forth the idea that class conflict hastens social change; that is the true end purpose behind stratification. As much as the ruling class wants to maintain the status quo, the lower classes want to change the prevailing inequalities. Ralf Dahrendorf thought too much emphasis was placed on class. He instead focused on thestruggle between groups like unions and employers. Collins concentrated on the way different groups maintained their social positions be acquiring education credentials. Functionalist Theory: Kingsley Davis and Wibert Moore argue that stratification functions positively in society. It motivates people and therefore meets society’s need for productivity. Because some jobs are more critical for the success of the society, functionalists argue that those jobs should be attached to greater rewards andhigher status. Social stability relies on inequality; stratification is a means of matching the most important roles with those who will fulfill them the best. One major criticism of this theory is that stratification systems do not always work in this manner. A common example of this is professional athletes. Their roles are not vital to the survival of society,

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