A Critique of Duncan's Stratification Research

Abstract

Duncan's interpretation of his research on the nature and process of the distribution of rewards in the U.S. stratification system is questioned. Statistical and conceptual flaws are noted in Duncan's work and their implications explored. A re-analysis of primary survey data is presented and, based upon this, a reconceptualization of the reward distribution process is offered. The implications of this reconceptualization for stratification research are noted. It is further suggested that a plausible source of Duncan's research error is that of presuppositional bias, particularly American egalitarian achievement ideology. It is also suggested that this bias did not emerge as an isolated case of analytical error in Duncan's research, but is present in every functionalist theoretical statement about the stratification system.