The document explores two contrasting perspectives on the role of the school in society: functionalism and Marxism. According to functionalism, the school is seen as an organ of society, contributing to social order and cohesion by providing education and socialization. On the other hand, Marxism v...
Functionalism and conflict theory (Marxism) are two prominent sociological perspectives that offer
contrasting views on the role of the school in society. Functionalism perceives the school as an
"organ of society," emphasizing its function in maintaining social order and harmony. On the other
hand, Marxism views the school as an instrument of class domination, serving to reproduce the
workforce and perpetuate existing class relationships. This essay aims to explore these opposing
perspectives and highlight the fundamental differences in their understanding of the relationship
between the school and society.
Functionalism sees society as a complex system composed of interconnected parts that work
together to ensure its smooth functioning. According to this perspective, the school is viewed as
an essential institution that plays a crucial role in socializing individuals and preparing them to fulfill
their societal roles. It is considered an "organ of society" that serves various important functions.
, LOLA JACOBS ASSIGNMENTS 2023- 0618151315
Assessment 4: Sociology of Education Essay-type Question
756113
Write an essay of no more than ten typed pages (cover page, table of content and bibliography
excluded) on the following topic:
Functionalism and conflict theory (Marxism) are two very different ways of viewing the
same social world and the relation of school to society.
Discuss this statement by referring to the school as “organ of society” (functionalism) and the
school as an instrument of class domination, serving to reproduce the workforce and maintaining
class relationships (Marxism).
1. Introduction to the essay:
Introduce the two schools of thought and their opposing views regarding the role of the school in
society.
(10)
Introduction:
Functionalism and conflict theory (Marxism) are two prominent sociological perspectives that offer
contrasting views on the role of the school in society. Functionalism perceives the school as an
"organ of society," emphasizing its function in maintaining social order and harmony. On the other
hand, Marxism views the school as an instrument of class domination, serving to reproduce the
workforce and perpetuate existing class relationships. This essay aims to explore these opposing
perspectives and highlight the fundamental differences in their understanding of the relationship
between the school and society.
Functionalism sees society as a complex system composed of interconnected parts that work
together to ensure its smooth functioning. According to this perspective, the school is viewed as
an essential institution that plays a crucial role in socializing individuals and preparing them to fulfill
their societal roles. It is considered an "organ of society" that serves various important functions.
Firstly, functionalists argue that the school provides education and imparts knowledge and skills
necessary for individuals to contribute to society's economic productivity. By equipping students
with the requisite skills, the school ensures the continued functioning and development of the labor
market. Moreover, the school acts as a socializing agent, teaching values, norms, and societal
expectations to students, facilitating their integration into the broader social fabric.
Additionally, functionalists contend that the school promotes social cohesion and stability. By
fostering a sense of national identity and shared values, it creates a collective consciousness that
binds individuals together. The school also instills respect for authority, social order, and the
existing social hierarchy, thereby maintaining societal harmony.
In contrast to functionalism, conflict theory, influenced by Marxist thought, provides a critical
perspective on the role of the school in society. Marxism posits that society is characterized by the
perpetual struggle between different social classes, primarily the bourgeoisie (capitalist class) and
the proletariat (working class).
According to Marxism, the school functions as an instrument of class domination and serves the
interests of the ruling class. It is seen as a mechanism that reproduces and perpetuates existing
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