Problem:
Functionalists argue that stratification is universal and that social inequality is necessary so that people will be motivated to fill functionally important positions (i.e. doctors, lawyers, professors, etc.). These positions require a lot of specialized and expensive education but are higher paying and have better benefits. Some sociologists argue that this perspective fails to acknowledge the contribution and social function that less prestigious jobs have on society. Choose one of the lower prestige jobs on the occupational prestige chart provided and try to explain the function that this occupation has in society. Ask yourself the following questions: Do the workers perform duties that are essential for the smooth functioning of day to day life? If the workers collectively stopped doing what they were doing would it disrupt the functioning of society in any way? Need Assignment Help?