please provide an example of a manifest and latent function of social stratification systems within society.

Question

I am doing a study guide to help me with my final exam for my sociology 101 class for chapters 7,9, and 10

Answer 1

Hello Taylor! As I'm sure you already know, a manifest function is an intended or primary function, whereas a latent function is an unintended or secondary function. Early sociologists came up with these terms when describing the functions of religious rituals in society.

 

So, let's think about a manifest or latent function for social stratification systems. One school of thought might say that a manifest function of social stratification systems is to ensure that "deserving" members of society have access to power and resources. However, a latent function is that those deemed "undeserving" not only have less access power and resources, but that their children will have less access to power and resources. The manifest function, then, is to ensure continual access to power and resources for those deemed "deserving," while a latent function is to not only prevent those deemed "undeserving" from access to power and resources, but to create poverty and violence among entire groups and communities.

 

Some argue that the latent function I mentioned is actually a manifest function of social stratification systems because by blocking people from access to power and resources, the intent is to ensure that people like the "undeserving" continue to not be able to influence society. In these cases, one can argue that a latent function is creating pride and alternative institutions among minority groups, which is clearly not in the interest of those with power and resources because then they lose resources and power over the minority group through a loss of control.