Taylor Carroll Families 9/4/14
Why do some analysts (especially those guided by the social-conflict approach)
describe the family as a system that perpetuates social inequality? Consider (a) class
stratification, (b) gender stratification, and (c) racial and ethnic stratification. Does family
encourage or discourage meritocracy? Why? Can you imagine a family form that would
not play a part in supporting social inequality? Explain.
Marriage and Family
Marriage is not considered to be “wedded bliss” by everyone. Creating a family is
viewed by some as the opposite, actually. Social-conflict theorists believe that marriage
and family promotes social inequality. Endogamy – marriage between people of the
same social category – is popular, especially in our society. These endogamous couples
then create families based in particular social classes, increasing the divide between
