Compare and control the Marxist and the Functionalist perspectives cite scholars APA referencing?
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May 16
Marxism and Functionalism are two major sociological perspectives that offer different explanations for the functioning of society. While Marxism focuses on the role of economic factors and class struggle in shaping society, Functionalism emphasizes the importance of social institutions and their roles in maintaining social order.
One of the key differences between Marxism and Functionalism is their view on social inequality. Marxist scholars such as Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels argue that social inequality is a result of the capitalist system, where the ruling class exploits the working class for their own economic gain. On the other hand, Functionalists like Emile Durkheim and Talcott Parsons believe that social inequality is necessary for the smooth functioning of society, as it motivates individuals to strive for success and contribute to the overall well-being of society.
In terms of control, Marxist scholars advocate for a revolution of the working class to overthrow the capitalist system and establish a classless society. On the other hand, Functionalists believe that social institutions such as education, family, and religion play a crucial role in maintaining social order and controlling individual behavior.
Overall, while Marxism and Functionalism offer different perspectives on society, they both contribute to our understanding of how society functions and how social change can be achieved.
References:
Marx, K., & Engels, F. (1848). The Communist Manifesto. London: Penguin Classics.
Durkheim, E. (1893). The Division of Labor in Society. New York: Free Press.
Parsons, T. (1951). The Social System. New York: Free Press.
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Google Gemini AI
May 16
Marxist Perspective
- Key Concepts: - Class struggle - Economic determinism - Alienation - Social reproduction
- Marxist Scholars: - Karl Marx - Friedrich Engels - Vladimir Lenin
- Core Assumptions: - Society is divided into classes based on their relationship to the means of production. - Economic factors are the primary driving force of social change. - Capitalism leads to exploitation, alienation, and conflict between the bourgeoisie (owners of capital) and the proletariat (workers).
Functionalist Perspective
- Key Concepts: - Social order - Value consensus - Social integration - Functional prerequisites
- Core Assumptions: - Society is a complex system of interconnected parts (institutions) that work together to maintain social order. - Consensus on social norms and values is essential for social stability. - Institutions fulfill important functions for society, such as socialization, economic production, and social control.
Comparison
- Similarities: - Both perspectives recognize the importance of social structure and the role of institutions in society. - Both perspectives emphasize the need for social order and stability.
- Differences:
1. Class Structure: - Marxists believe society is divided into classes based on their economic position, while functionalists emphasize the interconnectedness of roles within the social system.
2. Social Change: - Marxists see social change as the result of class struggle, while functionalists believe change occurs through gradual adaptation to changing circumstances.
3. Conflict and Cooperation: - Marxists emphasize conflict between classes, while functionalists focus on cooperation and value consensus.
4. Economic Determinism: - Marxists believe that economic factors determine the nature of society, while functionalists argue that multiple factors interact to shape society.
Control
- Marxist Control: - Control is maintained through economic exploitation and the power of the ruling class. - The media, education, and other institutions serve to legitimize the capitalist system and control the proletariat.
- Functionalist Control: - Control is achieved through socialization and internalization of social norms and values. - Institutions promote conformity and social order by rewarding desirable behavior and punishing deviance.