2b — weberian explanations for ethnic inequality

Question 1

Weber on ethnic inequality

Answer 1

ethnic majority hold highest amounts of power, status and class

Rex and Tomlinson 1979: ethnic minority experience of class and status inequality leads to poverty. Black underclass created, feel marginalised, alienated, frustrated. Inner-city riots due to feelings of exclusion

Class: Runnymede trust

Question 2

Barron and Norris on ethnic inequality

Answer 2

work sector consists of 2 sectors, primary and secondary

PRIMARY: secure, well-paid jobs, good prospects
SECONDARY: poor pay, insecurity, no ladder of promotion, gig economy, zero hour contracts

working class more likely secondary sector

ethnic inequality caused by DUAL LABOUR MARKET, as ethnic minorities less employment opportunities due to systematic racism (Brown and Gay)

Question 3

Parkin on ethnic inequality

Answer 3

EXCLUSION STRATEGY: groups anxious to protect privileges from new recruits so certain criteria used to restrict. E.g. immigration control, BNP

USURPATION STRATEGY: less privileged groups try grab others’ privilege e.g. Race Relations Act, Racial Discrimination Act

Question 4

Hutton on ethnic inequality

Answer 4

1. DISADVANTAGED: Bottom 30% of unemployed, economically inactive,, part-timers, insecure employment.
2. MARGINALISED: middle 30% structurally insecure employment , part timers on contracts, zero hour contracts
3. PRIVILEGED: 40% tenured jobs, security, trade union agreements like teachers, doctors, lecturers

ethnic majority most likely to be privileged