Question

Explain how conflict theory differs from functionalist theory in relation to education.

Answer 1

The functionalist theory perceives the duty of education such as transfer of core values and social control while the conflict theory regard education as a way of sustaining power structure and establishing a docile labor force for capitalism. Functionalists view education as helpful

contribution to an ordered community whereas conflict theorist’s regards schooling system as a

continuing the status quo by numbing the lower classes into being compliant employees.

Functionalists perceives education in its clear purpose; transmitting knowledge and skills to the

next generation while conflict theorist view education as upholding social disparity and

conserving the power of those who control society.