Davis and Moore Theory of Stratification : Functionalist Theory
Davis and Moore Theory of Stratification : Functionalist Theory
Kingsley Davis and Wilbert Moore, prominent American sociologists and former students of Talcott Parsons, introduced a functionalist perspective on social stratification that has significantly influenced sociological thought. Their 1945 paper, “Some Principles of Stratification,” sparked both popularity and controversy within the field. This article examines their theory, its core propositions, and the critiques it has faced.
I. Theoretical Foundation
Davis and Moore expanded on Talcott Parsons’ emphasis on the inevitability of stratification in society. They sought to explain how stratification functions effectively within any given social structure, addressing fundamental questions about the differentiation of positions and the processes through which individuals attain these positions.
The Four Functional Prerequisites:
• Role Filling: All positions in society must be occupied for stability.
• Competence: The most capable individuals should fill crucial roles.
• Training: Adequate preparation is necessary to identify and prepare qualified candidates.
• Conscientious Performance: Roles must be carried out diligently and responsibly.
II. Core Propositions of the Davis-Moore Theory
Davis and Moore argued that some positions in society are functionally more significant than others, warranting greater rewards and prestige. They proposed that only a limited number of individuals possess the necessary talents or merits to excel in crucial roles, and that many important positions require lengthy and intensive training, often involving personal sacrifices.
Key aspects of their theory include:
• Motivation through Unequal Rewards:
– Encourages individuals to pursue important positions.
– Motivates continuous improvement in performance.
• Applicability Across Societal Types: The theory claims relevance for both modern, achievement-oriented societies and traditional, ascription-based societies.
III. Functions of Stratification
According to Davis and Moore, stratification serves several important functions in society:
• Selection Mechanism: It acts as a means to select the most qualified individuals for important positions.
• Motivational System: Unequal rewards motivate individuals to aspire to and excel in crucial roles.
• Societal Stability: By ensuring that important positions are filled by competent individuals, stratification contributes to overall social stability.
IV. Critiques and Controversies
Melvin Tumin’s Critique:
Melvin Tumin provided one of the most comprehensive critiques of the Davis-Moore theory. His main points of contention were:
• Measurement of Functional Importance: Tumin questioned how the importance of positions can be objectively determined.
• Role of Power: He argued that power dynamics, rather than functional importance, often determine rewards.
• Training and Sacrifice: Tumin challenged the notion that training always equates to sacrifice.
• Barriers to Mobility: He highlighted how social discrimination and inequality limit access to opportunities.
• Reproduction of Inequality: Tumin argued that stratification perpetuates privilege across generations.
Additional Criticisms:
Other scholars have raised further concerns about the theory:
• Oversimplification: The theory may oversimplify complex social dynamics.
• Neglect of Conflict: It doesn’t adequately address social conflicts arising from inequality.
• Justification of Inequality: Some critics argue that the theory serves to justify existing inequalities.
