2. Explanation of Stratification

3 Ways to Explain Stratification 1.Functionalist Thoery 2.Conflict Theory 3.Symbolic Interactionism and Stratification Theory

1. Functionalist Theory Strat. ensures that the most competent people rise to the top positions. $, prestige and power are attached to higher positions and encourage the sacrifices necessary to fill these positions (school) –Dr’s make more $ and have more power and prestige than McD’s frycooks

2. Conflict Theory Marxism; based on force; some people are willing to exploit/own others The powerful vs. the powerless –The powerful (bourgeoisie) own media, schools, government and impose their ideas on the powerless (proletariat). False consciousness: working class acceptance of capitalist ideas and values

3. Symbolic Interactionism We believe the “haves” got to where they are due to hard work, intelligence, etc The “have nots” lack talent, motivation, etc. –This results in low self- esteem/powerlessness to change in the lower classes and undeserved high self- esteem of the upper classes

Summary FT- studies relationship between performance and $ ($ increases as performance increases) CT- studies relationship between class and punishment of crime (increase in class = decrease in punishments) SI- studies link between class and esteem (increase in class = increase in esteem