Question

Which of these arguments about stratification is a structural-functional theory?

1) Stratification is needed to ensure that the most important positions in a society are filled by the most qualified individuals.
2) Stratification is based on power relations that are structured into society.
3) Stratification is in all societies, but only becomes inequality at the face to face level.
4) When societies are structured poorly, they have dysfunctional ways to stratify people.

Answer 1

Option 1, which states that stratification ensures important positions are filled by qualified individuals, aligns with the structural-functional theory, attributing stratification to the functional importance of societal roles.

Step-by-step explanation:

The structural-functional theory of stratification suggests that stratification exists because it serves a function within society. According to this perspective, the argument that 'Stratification is needed to ensure that the most important positions in a society are filled by the most qualified individuals' aligns with structural-functional theory.

This view posits that different tasks have inherently unequal importance, thus those who fill the more demanding and critical roles, like doctors or lawyers, must be rewarded more. Such rewards are decided not just by the commanding heights of economic power but by society's assessment of the role's functional importance. Therefore, option 1 articulates the functionalist view that in order to incentivize and allocate the most capable people into the most pivotal positions, society must offer greater rewards.