Answer to Question #191529 in Sociology for Bright Opoku-Ware

Question

Using conflict, functionalist and symbolic interactionism perspective, explain with suitable illustrations, the inevitability and universality of social strafication and deviance 

Answer 1

Conflict theory explains social stratification based on Karl Marx’s view of class societies. It incorporates the critique of the functionalist view. Many different explanations on conflict theory exist, but they all assume that stratification stems from a fundamental conflict between the interests and needs of the powerful. The powerful take advantage of their position in the society to stay at the top, even if it means oppressing the ones at the bottom. The powerful influence the media, the law and other institutions in a way to maintain the class structure of a society. As such, Stratification results from lack of opportunity and from discrimination.

Functionalist theory make assumption that the different structures and processes in a society exist because they serve important functions for the continuity and stability of the society. In line with this view, functionalist theorists in sociology assume that stratification existance induces people with special knowledge intelligence, and skills to enter the most important occupations. Be that as it may, stratification is significant.

Symbolic interactionism theory focuses on the relationships between people in the society. Communication—the exchange of meaning through language and symbols—is believed to be the way in which people make sense of their social worlds. under the symbolic interactions, stratification affects people’s beliefs, lifestyles, daily interaction, and conceptions of themselves.