A Critique of Duncan's Stratification Research.

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 reanalysis of primary survey data is presented and, based on a reinterpretation of this data, 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 presuppositional bias did not emerge as analytical error in Duncan's research as an isolated case, but is present in every functionalist theoretical statement about the stratification system. (Author)