A Level Sociology OCR Practice Exam 2025 – The All-in-One Guide to Exam Success!

Functionalists emphasize the importance of social structures and their contributions to the functioning of society as a whole. They believe that each aspect of society plays a crucial role in maintaining social order and stability. In this context, meritocracy—where individuals achieve success based on ability, effort, and talent—is often seen as essential for societal health.

With the rise of digital technologies, Functionalists may argue that meritocracy is devalued. Digital technologies can lead to unequal access to resources and opportunities, creating disparities in educational and professional achievements. This shift can undermine the belief that everyone has an equal chance to succeed based on their abilities and efforts, thereby challenging the meritocratic ideals that Functionalists support.

The other options, while relevant social concepts, do not capture the Functionalist concern effectively. Cooperation and social interaction can be enhanced by digital technologies, and community values may be expressed in various ways through this medium, but the central concern from a Functionalist perspective focuses on how these technologies impact the equitable distribution of opportunities and the meritocratic framework.