A Level Sociology Education AQA Practice Exam

What is a common belief held by the New Right regarding talent in education?

1. Everyone has the same innate talent

2. All talents are equally recognized in the system

3. Some individuals are inherently more talented than others

4. Education should focus on collective talent development

The correct answer is: Some individuals are inherently more talented than others

The New Right perspective in sociology is characterized by a belief in individualism and meritocracy, which holds that some individuals possess inherent differences in talent and ability. This viewpoint suggests that educational success is not solely determined by socio-economic background or equal opportunities within the system, but rather by the varying levels of natural talent among students. Advocates of the New Right argue that the education system should recognize and reward these differences in ability, emphasizing competition and individual achievement. This leads to the notion that those who are inherently more talented should be nurtured to excel, while those with lesser abilities may need different forms of support or opportunities. This belief is seen as a justification for selection processes like streaming or ability grouping in schools, as it aligns with their overall philosophy that the education system should facilitate social mobility based on merit. This perspective contrasts with views that advocate for equal recognition of all talents or the idea that everyone has the same innate talent, which ignore the inherent differences in ability that the New Right emphasizes. Additionally, the idea that education should focus on collective talent development is more aligned with collectivist or egalitarian principles, which stand in opposition to the individualistic assertions made by the New Right.