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Unit 4: Theories of Social Stratification-II

The Davis-Moore Approach Notes
Kingsley Davis and Wilbert E. Moore are the chief advocates of the structural-functional theory of
social stratification. Before we take up a detailed discussion, some salient features of this theory
may be mentioned here :
1. Inevitability of functional differentiation.
2. Need for differential intent and ability for different functions.
3. Differential evaluation of different social positions and duties.
4. Reward on the basis of differential value attached with the different functions.
5. Values and rewards constituting the social differentiation and differentiation.
That quintessence of the structural-functional theory of stratification is that social hierarchy is the
result of the inevitability of differentiation of roles and duties. Different duties and roles carry
differential power and prestige. The differentiation of roles and duties is inevitable for the survival
of mankind. As such, stratification becomes an inevitable phenomenon of social life.
A slightly different view may be stated here as expressed by Joseph Schumpeter. He observes that
classes emerge from varying historical conditions. The formation, nature and basic laws of classes
depend upon two criteria : (i) on the significance that is attributed to the function performed by
class, and (ii) the degree to which the class successfully performs the function. Schumpeter states
that the criterion that functions are “socially necessary,” however, cannot alone decides relative
evaluation. The importance of an individual class member in a given situation is particularly a
decisive factor. Schumpeter’s above two criteria, however, are almost synonymous with the
“functional necessities” of Davis and Moore. His added historical significance given to the class
stratification is certainly a valuable contribution.
Davis and Moore thus show the relationship between stratification and the rest of the social order.
The assumption, as explained earlier, is that no society is “classless” or unstratified, hence universal
necessity of social stratification. Another point is that roughly there is uniform distribution of
prestige in every society. However, there are great differences in the degree and kind of stratification.
We need to study the varieties of social inequality and the variable factors that give rise to them.
To understand the universal and the variable vis-a-vis social stratification is the main consideration.
Davis and Moore refer to the analysis of the system of positions, not to the individuals occupying
those positions. Why different positions carry different degrees of prestige ? How certain individuals
get into these positions ? These questions are core of the debate of the structural-functional theory
of social stratification. Let us discuss some important points of the Davis-Moore approach in
detail.
Functional Necessity of Stratification

Every society requires individuals who can be placed and motivated for specific tasks. There are
social positions and duties attached to them. Individual members in a society are assigned work
in specific positions based on their eligibility and ability. People are motivated at two levels : (1)
to instil in the proper individuals the desire to fill certain positions, and (2) the desire to perform
the duties attached to them. This is true of all systems, whether they are relatively static or
somewhat dynamic. This goes on as a process. This is also there in competitive or non-competitive
system. Motivation may vary depending upon the nature of the system.
If all positions are equal in their significance for the society, then people may not bother about
their preferential choice for particular positions. But, the reality is : who gets into which positions?
This question is often raised. Since positions are not the same, some require special talents of
training and some are functionally more important than others. Duties attached to given positions
must be performed with the diligence required for given tasks. Based on such a functionalist logic,
a society must have not only some kinds of rewards as inducements, and but also some way of

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