Who did Durkheim argue the main function of education was?

Emile Durkhiem (the functionalist) – writing over 100 years ago that one of the main functions of education is to bind members of society together – this creates social unity and solidarity.

What do you understand by the term functional perquisite?

education functions as a key mechanism (functional prerequisite) through which a new generation of children acquire the ‘central’ norms, values and culture of their society

What did Durkheim argue schools were?

Durkheim argued that schools are a ‘society in miniature’ – a small scale version of the wider society in which people live and work.

What’s the difference between ‘achieved’ and ‘ascribed’ status?

Achieved status is what you work for e. g Achieved status is what you work for e.g. succeeding at school while ascribed status is what you’re given by your family.

What did Davis and Moore argue?

They argued we live in a meritocratic society where the education system becomes the best mechanism for selecting the right people for the right jobs – role allocation.

What is the division of labour?

whereby the world of work is fragmented into a large number of specialized jobs. From this position the inequalities in society are fair and just, everyone is given and equal chance