Davis-Moore Theory

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Davis and Moore brought forth one of the most pronounced modern functional theories of social stratification. Within their theory, they explain the importance of inequality and social stratification, as it serves as a positive function in society (Kerbo 2009: 119). Both Davis and Moore are functional theorist in which they view society as a whole, rather than subsections. In addition, they view society as social systems that have values, norms, and needs that must me met and maintained in order to function as a whole (Kerbo 2009:86) without a considerable amount of anomie as well as sustain a society.Much like a plant, these organisms require water, sunlight, and maintenance and without these specific needs, plants would cease to exist. According …show more content…
Thus meaning, the largest or most valuable rewards are granted to those who have difficult careers. The first basic summary of the theory is (1) “Certain positions in any society are functionally more important than others, and require special skills to fill them (Kerbo 2009:120).” Essentially this is saying that some jobs such as doctors, lawyers, nurses, and engineers etc. are seen as more of an importance and help society function properly, versus jobs like secretaries, cashiers, and janitors. Secondly,( 2) “Only a limited number of people in any society have the talents that can be trained into skills appropriate to these positions (Kerbo 2009:120).” These talents and skills can be translated to patience, intellect, determination, and great interpersonal relationships etc. in order to obtain particular positions. An additional example would be athletes, they have talent as far as being good at a sport, however, it takes training to acquire skills to ultimately become an outstanding athlete. (3) “The conversion of talents into skills involves a training period during which sacrifices of one kind or another are made by those undergoing the training (Kerbo 2009:120).” During medical school or internships, students sacrifice time, sleep, social life, and sometimes full-time jobs while they train in becoming a doctor, lawyer, and engineer. The extent of training and time an individual undergoes for his or her career is an essential point for the next basic

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