, PREVIEW:
Question 1
1.1 How is the concept 'class' explained by the following theorists?
a) A conflict theorist
b) A functionalist theorist
The concept of "class" is defined differently by various sociological theorists, based
on their understanding and interpretation of society.
a) A Conflict Theorist: From a conflict theory perspective, particularly as formulated
by Karl Marx, class is inherently tied to the economic structure of society and
represents a fundamental aspect of ongoing social conflict. Marx argued that there
are two main social classes in capitalist societies: the bourgeoisie, or capitalist class,
who owns the means of production (factories, land, capital), and the proletariat, or
working class, who sells their labour power to the bourgeoisie. These two classes
have fundamentally opposing interests, leading to a constant state of conflict. This
conflict, Marx theorized, would eventually lead to a revolution and the establishment
of a classless society……………………………………………………………………..