Explaining Age Inequality
Functionalism
- Maintaining social order in society
- Organ Analogy- Parsons
CUMMINGS AND HENRY: Disengagement Theory
- Consensus approach of explaining age inequality (functional for
society)
- About older people
Older people gradually deteriorate from social roles (job, family) and
Relationships.
Natural
Individuals are relieved of their Responsibilities and Roles -> transferred to
younger people to maintain social stability
Marxism
Age inequality is a social construct that benefits Bourgeoisie
Exploitation of age groups to maintain economic efficiency and
control
CAPITALISMs View of Youth:
1. Valusable Assets. 2. Exploitable
(new energy and skills) (lack of experience, cheaper
labour…)
MARX AND ENGELS: Reserve Army of Labour
Unemployed or Underemployed get called into work when needed.
May have Benefits for Students due to lack of time
Exploitation by Bourgeoisie
1. Benefitial for Bourgeoisie bc. It always ensures that theres
competition for jobs
Functionalism
- Maintaining social order in society
- Organ Analogy- Parsons
CUMMINGS AND HENRY: Disengagement Theory
- Consensus approach of explaining age inequality (functional for
society)
- About older people
Older people gradually deteriorate from social roles (job, family) and
Relationships.
Natural
Individuals are relieved of their Responsibilities and Roles -> transferred to
younger people to maintain social stability
Marxism
Age inequality is a social construct that benefits Bourgeoisie
Exploitation of age groups to maintain economic efficiency and
control
CAPITALISMs View of Youth:
1. Valusable Assets. 2. Exploitable
(new energy and skills) (lack of experience, cheaper
labour…)
MARX AND ENGELS: Reserve Army of Labour
Unemployed or Underemployed get called into work when needed.
May have Benefits for Students due to lack of time
Exploitation by Bourgeoisie
1. Benefitial for Bourgeoisie bc. It always ensures that theres
competition for jobs
