Social Class - how can patterns and trends in social class inequality and difference be explained? Flashcards
What is social class inequality?
The unequal distribution of resources, opportunities, and privileges among different social classes.
True or False: Social class inequality only affects economic status.
False
Fill in the blank: __________ refers to the movement of individuals between social classes.
Social mobility
What are the main social classes typically identified in sociology?
Upper class, middle class, working class, and lower class.
Which theory explains social class inequality through the lens of capitalism?
Marxist theory
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is considered a factor contributing to social class inequality? A) Education B) Gender C) Race D) All of the above
D) All of the above
What role does education play in social class inequality?
Education can influence job opportunities and income, affecting one’s social class position.
True or False: Social class inequality has remained constant over the last century.
False
What is the ‘culture of poverty’ thesis?
A theory suggesting that poverty leads to a distinct culture that perpetuates social class inequality.
Fill in the blank: __________ is the ability to influence social change and access resources.
Power
What does the term ‘intergenerational mobility’ refer to?
The changes in social status that occur between different generations within a family.
Multiple Choice: Which sociologist is known for their work on social stratification? A) Emile Durkheim B) Max Weber C) Karl Marx D) All of the above
D) All of the above
What is the relationship between social class and health outcomes?
Lower social classes often experience poorer health outcomes due to limited access to resources and healthcare.
True or False: Social class inequality can be completely eliminated.
False
What does the term ‘structural inequality’ mean?
Inequality that is built into the social structure, affecting opportunities and outcomes for different classes.
Fill in the blank: __________ refers to the social and economic factors that influence an individual’s class position.
Social stratification
What is the impact of globalization on social class inequality?
Globalization can exacerbate social class inequalities by creating economic disparities between countries and within societies.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a dimension of social class? A) Income B) Education C) Age D) Occupation
C) Age
What is the significance of the ‘working poor’ in discussions of social class inequality?
The ‘working poor’ highlights the challenges faced by individuals who are employed but still live in poverty.
True or False: Social class has no impact on political power.
False
What does ‘class consciousness’ mean?
An awareness of one’s social class and the collective interests of that class.
Fill in the blank: __________ is a system of social stratification based on wealth, income, and social status.
Social class system
What is the difference between ‘absolute poverty’ and ‘relative poverty’?
Absolute poverty refers to a lack of basic necessities, while relative poverty considers one’s economic status in comparison to others.
Multiple Choice: Which factor is least likely to influence social class inequality? A) Family background B) Educational attainment C) Personal beliefs D) Geographic location
C) Personal beliefs
What is the concept of ‘privilege’ in relation to social class?
Privilege refers to unearned advantages held by individuals based on their social class, race, or gender.
True or False: Economic capital is the only type of capital that affects social class.
False
What is ‘social capital’?
The networks and relationships that provide individuals with access to resources and opportunities.
Fill in the blank: __________ is a measure of the social and economic status of a person or family.
Socioeconomic status
What is the significance of the ‘digital divide’ in social class inequality?
The digital divide highlights disparities in access to technology and information, which can impact educational and economic opportunities.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is a result of social class inequality? A) Unequal educational opportunities B) Income disparity C) Limited access to healthcare D) All of the above
D) All of the above
What does it mean to be in the ‘lower class’?
Individuals in the lower class often have low income, limited education, and unstable employment.
