SOCA01H3 Chapter Notes - Chapter 14: Sehar
Document Summary
A functionalist account: pluralist theory: pluralist theory: holds that power is widely dispersed. As a result, no group enjoys disproportionate influence, and decisions are usually reached through negotiation and compromise. They viewed the political system as an institution that helps society achieve its goals and interests, in the process integrating its members and keeping it in equilibrium. Conflict approaches i: elite theory: elite theory: holds that small groups occupying the command posts of most influential institutions make important decisions that profoundly affect all members of society. Moreover, they do so without much regard for elections or public opinion: elites: are small groups that control the command posts of institutions, a ruling class: a self-conscious cohesive group of people in elite positions. John porter argued against the idea of a ruling class in canada, but some of his students disagreed: contrary to pluralist claims, canada"s elite consistently exercise disproportionate influence over political life.