Jacquelyn Morran- Blog 2

This chapter introduced us to several different theories that play a role in the sociology of education, as well as the major theorists behind them. Some of these include neo-Marxism, symbolic interactionism, critical race theory, and functionalism. The section that stood out to me the most was the Weberian concept of credentialism, which the textbook describes as “the requirement of obtaining specific qualifications for membership to particular groups.” (28) This is something that is seen played out in Canadian society all the time, especially as the text elaborates that “many entry level jobs require a university degree.” (28) I think this is such a silly and unnecessary concept that bars many people from being able to get a job. My own siblings are in university with no real direction other than to obtain a degree so they have a better chance of finding employment. While University education has an important place, I don’t think it should be a requirement.

Another part of this chapter that I found interesting was the discussion on critical race theory. On page 47, it says that critical race theorists point out how “racism has become normal in society” and I think this is true. While I wish that I was a completely non-racist person, and I strive to be, I can still recognize racial tendencies in my own thoughts, beliefs and actions at times, and I can certainly see them around me. It is even more obvious in older generations. I hope that as time goes on, racism will become a thing of the past, though I will be surprised if that ever happens.

Overall, I think the discussion of these many different theories has an important place in the study of education and society, although I sometimes find them confusing.

Discussion question: Do you believe that the shift to requiring university degrees for an increasing number of jobs is a positive change?