Which statement reflects the consensus perspective?

Which statement reflects the consensus perspective?

• A. Inequality serves an important societal function.
• B. Inequality is always unjust.
• C. The system should abolish private property.
• D. Class conflict drives social change.

Answer: (A)

The main idea being tested is how the consensus (functionalist) view explains social inequality. Functionalists see society as a system of interrelated parts that work together to maintain stability. In this view, unequal distribution of rewards and resources serves a function: it motivates people to fill different, sometimes more demanding roles, helps organize tasks, and supports social order. So the statement that inequality serves an important societal function best captures this perspective, because it directly expresses the functionalist claim that stratification has a purpose for society. The other statements reflect views more associated with conflict theory: that inequality is inherently unjust, that abolishing private property is necessary for change, or that class conflict drives social change. These ideas emphasize domination, struggle, and radical change rather than the stabilizing function that functionalists highlight.

The main idea being tested is how the consensus (functionalist) view explains social inequality. Functionalists see society as a system of interrelated parts that work together to maintain stability. In this view, unequal distribution of rewards and resources serves a function: it motivates people to fill different, sometimes more demanding roles, helps organize tasks, and supports social order. So the statement that inequality serves an important societal function best captures this perspective, because it directly expresses the functionalist claim that stratification has a purpose for society.

The other statements reflect views more associated with conflict theory: that inequality is inherently unjust, that abolishing private property is necessary for change, or that class conflict drives social change. These ideas emphasize domination, struggle, and radical change rather than the stabilizing function that functionalists highlight.