class inequality

Question 1

Society has historically faced divisions of power - Marx

Answer 1

historical materialism = human beings have material needs for food, shelter etc + need to work to meet these

Class inequality deep rooted into society - need divisions of labour - leader need to control to function properly

Question 2

Ruling Class use ideological control to maintain their superior position - Marx

Answer 2

all other institutions make up superstructure

dominance + subordination of Proletariat essential to relations of production = relations reflected superstructure

Institutions of superstructure support + reflect ruling class ideology = to control the masses

Question 3

Class inequality justified through hegemony - Gramsci

Answer 3

Ruling class rule through persuasion

hegemony = RC maintain control through controlling ideas, beliefs and culture

institutions like media + education system controls people’s minds

WC work within Capitalism + contribute to it, aware of inequalities, injustices = dual consciousness

Question 4

Power is becoming more concentrated in society - Westergaard

Answer 4

Bourgeoisie will become more concentrated over time ( small but powerful)

Polarisation of classes = rich get richer poor get poorer

richest 10% of households holds 43% of all wealth + poorest 50% own 9%