Economic Factors

Social class is determined by a combination of economic factors such as wealth, income, and occupation

Political Factors

Political factors also play a role in determining social class, as those in power often have higher social status

Cultural Factors

Cultural factors, such as education and prestige, can also contribute to an individual's social class

Indicators of Inequality

Inequality can be measured through indicators such as wealth distribution, access to education, employment opportunities, and health outcomes

Intersectionality

Inequality is not limited to social class, but also encompasses disparities based on gender, ethnicity, age, and disability

Impact on Life Experiences

These inequalities contribute to differential life experiences and opportunities for individuals based on their social class

Conflict between Classes

The Marxist perspective highlights the conflict between the bourgeoisie, who control the means of production, and the proletariat, who must sell their labor

Expansion of Social Classes

This framework has been expanded to include the middle class and the underclass, who face different challenges in employment and education

Concentration of Power and Wealth

Sociologists have explored the concentration of power and wealth in the hands of the ruling class and how individuals self-identify with social classes based on their experiences with power and prestige

Definition of Life Chances

Life chances refer to the opportunities individuals have to secure desirable resources and avoid negative experiences, heavily influenced by their social class

Advantages of Higher Social Class

Those in higher social classes typically enjoy better life expectancy, wealth, income, and access to education and employment

Perpetuation of Inequality

These advantages are often perpetuated through inheritance, influential social networks, and political clout, reinforcing the cycle of inequality across generations