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Essay / Research Paper Abstract
A paper which looks at young people's perception of work, with reference to functionalist, social conflict and symbolic interaction theories. Bibliography lists 4 sources
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3 pages (~225 words per page)
File: JL5_JLworksoc.rtf
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relationship to societal norms and personal identity, it is perhaps useful to first consider the ways that social reality and aspirational goals might be defined. For example, whatever fluctuations in
unemployment rates and the labour market might exist, we can argue that taken across the board, work is a consistent social reality in the UK. On the other hand, we
could equally well argue that in areas of high unemployment, where there have been several generations accustomed to permanent, full time jobs being a rarity, then it is equally valid
to say that employment is now perceived as an aspirational, and somewhat remote, goal. Functionalism, as described by Macionis (2005) states that society is
a complex system of interacting parts, which "work together to promote solidarity and stability" (Macionis, 2005, PG). Changes are to be dealt with from this position of stability, so that
they do not lead to the fragmentation of the social order. However, as he points out, this model does not take into account the social inequalities which give rise to
conflict - if we use the social-conflict model instead it becomes apparent that the various inequalities inherent in society - affluence, health, race, gender, age, and so on - are
what give rise to change in the first place. If, for instance, it is lack of equal educational opportunities which deprives young people of work, then we can see that
those who benefit from such a situation will seek to maintain the status quo, and those who do not, will seek to challenge it.
One also has to take into account the importance of symbolic interaction in the construct of social and personal identity. The individual develops a sense of self through interaction with
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