1. Functionalism vs. Conflict Theories
Derek Wilson
SOC760

2. Some Principles of Stratification
Shows relationship between Stratification and Social Order
Explains a uniform prestige between positions in society
States that stratification is a functional necessity
Society places desire on positions that need fulfillment
These positions have prestige and reward
Davis & Moore (1945)

3. Some Principles of Stratification (Cont.)
Determinants of Positional Rank
Differential Functional Importance
Easily filled positions need not be rewarded
Essential positions require talent and reward
Differential Scarcity of Personnel
Individuals who fulfill necessity positions are scarce
Due to talent requirement and rigor
They need reward and social scale increase as motivation to attempt these positions
Davis & Moore (1945)

4. Some Principles of Stratification (Cont.)
Societal Functions of Stratification
Religion
Focusses on unity and values
Higher positioned people within Religion hold power
Can often determine their own prestige within their religion
Government
Focusses on enforcement of norms and planning
Guides arbitration of conflicting interests
Davis & Moore (1945)

5. Some Principles of Stratification (Cont.)
Societal Functions of Stratification
Wealth/Poverty/Labor
Entirely economic focused
Based on rewarding talents and labor with economic prestige
Technical Knowledge
Displays of intellect and norms
Seen as socially desirable
Davis & Moore (1945)

6. Some Principles of Stratification (Cont.)
Talent Conversion is a Process
Takes time and dedication
Turns talent into ability to fulfill necessity positions
In “most” cases:
The more talent/ability required = the more reward/prestige
Things to Consider…
Cultural development
Situation with respect to other societies
Size of society observed
Davis & Moore (1945)

7. … A Critical Analysis Critique 1 Critique 2
No methods for measuring long/short range consequences of functionality shifts
Critique 2
Societies have alternative means of finding talents
Societies have hidden/built-in obstacles
Tumin (1953)

8. … A Critical Analysis (Cont.)
Critique 3
Differential rewards are not necessary for motivation
Families sacrifice for children during training
Prestige during training is high
Critique 4
Alternative rewards exist as forms of motivation
Motives could be joy of work or social duty
Tumin (1953)

9. … A Critical Analysis (Cont.)
Critique 5/6
There are cultural/societal differences in praise and desire
This makes many concepts less universal
Societies also reward those following the norms
Critique 7
There are other forms of inequality not measured
Assumes that all individuals are equally worthy
Tumin (1953)

10. … A Critical Analysis (Cont.)
Inequality Issues (Ways Stratification is Dysfunctional
1. It limits the possibility of individuals discovering a full range of their talents.
2. It limits the ability to expand productive resources of society.
3. It gives the elite power to control the status quo and their positions on top.
4. It limits the creativity potential and opportunity to create a self-image that is favorable to individuals.
5. It encourages hostility, suspicion, and distrust.
6. It distributes a sense of significance of membership unequally.
7. Loyalty depends of membership significance within a society.
8. It distributes motivation unequally.
Tumin (1953)

11. Comparison & Conclusion
Articles flow well as they rely upon each other (literally)
Focusses on the motivations of individuals obtaining professions
Medical Doctor
Plumber
Teachers as a counter argument
Handout includes Reply from Davis
Reply counters counter-arguments and addresses issues of assumptions
Discussion Questions
Davis & Moore (1945), Davis (1953), Tumin (1953)

12. Sources Cited
Davis, Kingsley and Wilbert E. Moore “Some Principles of Stratification.” American Sociological Review 10:
Davis, K “Some Principles of Stratification: A Critical Analysis: Reply.” American Sociological Review, 18:
(Given as part of handout)
Tumin, Melvin “Some Principles of Stratification: A Critical Analysis.” American Sociological Review 18: