Sociology – Paper 2 – Theories of the family and social change | e-Consult
Paper 2 – Theories of the family and social change (1 questions)
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| Aspect | Assimilationist Approach | Pluralist Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Core Idea | Minorities adopt the dominant culture’s norms and values. | Minorities retain distinct cultural identities within a shared civic framework. |
| Policy Focus | Language acquisition, citizenship tests, uniform education curricula. | Multicultural education, anti‑discrimination legislation, support for cultural institutions. |
| Social Cohesion Mechanism | Shared identity through cultural homogeneity. | Inter‑group contact and mutual respect for diversity. |
| Potential Outcomes | Reduced visible diversity; risk of marginalisation if integration fails. | Greater cultural vibrancy; possible tension over competing values. |
| Implications for Social Change | Change driven by convergence toward dominant norms; slower transformation of power structures. | Change emerges from recognition of minority rights, leading to more inclusive institutions and policies. |
In summary, assimilationist models seek uniformity, often limiting the scope of social change to cultural conformity, whereas pluralist models encourage structural reforms that accommodate diversity, fostering more profound and inclusive social transformation.