Class inequality

Question 1

Traditional class structure
Marx
Society is divided into?
What is the ruling class ideology? who is it passed to? how?
What does this produce amongst the proletariat?
What two things is the relationship between the bourgeoisie and proletariats based on?
When will as revolution occur? what does the proletariats have to realise?

Answer 1

Saw society as a structure divided into two parts:
Infrastructure - economic base
This shapes the…
Superstructure - political, legal and education systems, beliefs and ideas
Ruling Class Ideology – Ideologies of the ruling class that are passed on to the proletariat - These reinforce their position of power without us realising eg the media
This produces a False Consciousness which prevents people from seeing the reality of their situation.
The relationship between the Bourgeoisie and Proletariat is one built on exploitation and mutual dependence.
Revolution = when the proletariat become aware of their exploited position.

Question 2

change in class structure
Marx
Term?
what do they lack? with?
why?

Answer 2

Lumpen proletariat

Lack the necessary engagement with work because of the way society is structured

Question 3

The difference between the rich and poor getting worse
Westergaard
What is occurring?
Definition?
what is becoming stronger in the late 20th century?
the top…% have seen? in comparison to what group?

Answer 3

Polarisation
Rich getting richer and the poor getting poorer
Class differences are becoming stronger in the late 20th century
The top 10% have seen massive increases in their income whereas the lower classes have virtually seen none

Question 4

Evidence of class inequality/ life chances
Scott

Answer 4

The upper class exercise social closure to ensure they maintain the highest concentration of wealth