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Theories of Social Inequality

Theoretical Foundations

Why Inequality Exists

Sociologists offer various explanations to understand why social inequalities exist and how they are maintained. Two key perspectives are Labelling theory and Marxism, both focusing on different aspects of inequality and power.

Labelling Theory Concepts

Labelling theory originates from symbolic interactionism and focuses on how people’s identities and behaviors are shaped by the labels society assigns to them.

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Stereotypes

Social groups often face generalized and simplistic ideas called stereotypes (e.g., 'all unemployed people are lazy').
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Master status

When a particular label becomes the main identity for someone, overriding other characteristics.
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Self-fulfilling prophecy

This occurs when people internalize a label and act accordingly, fulfilling societal expectations.

Marxism: The Conflict Perspective

The Structure of Inequality

Marxism is a conflict theory developed from the ideas of Karl Marx. It sees social inequality as rooted in the economic structure of capitalist societies, focusing on class struggle between two main groups: the bourgeoisie (owners of the means of production) and the proletariat (working class).

Key Marxist Mechanisms

The following mechanisms illustrate how inequality is structurally maintained within a capitalist system.

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Exploitation

Capitalists benefit by paying workers less than the value of their labour, extracting surplus value as profit.
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Ideological control

The ruling class maintains power by controlling ideas and beliefs, using institutions to promote capitalist values and justify inequality.
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Poverty trap

Working-class people often remain in poverty due to structural barriers including low wages, lack of education, and unemployment.
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Reserve army of labour

Capitalism maintains a pool of unemployed or underemployed workers to keep wages low and workers compliant by threatening job loss.

Comparison: Micro vs. Macro

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Labelling Theory (Micro) Focuses on micro-level interactions and cultural meanings, explaining the social construction of inequality.
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Marxism (Macro) Examines macro-level economic systems and structural causes of inequality.

Sociological Insight

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The Goal of Analysis: Using these perspectives, sociologists analyze how inequality is created and maintained and consider ways to reduce or challenge these systems.

Sociological Theories Deck
Term
Labelling Theory Focus

What does labelling theory focus on?

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Explanation

How people's identities and behaviors are shaped by societal labels.

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Stereotype

What is a stereotype?

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Definition

A generalized and simplistic idea about a social group.

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Master Status

Define "master status" in labelling theory.

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Definition

A label that dominates a person's social identity, overshadowing other traits.

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Self-fulfilling Prophecy

What is a self-fulfilling prophecy?

Answer
Explanation

When individuals internalize a label and act in ways that reinforce it.

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Marxism on Inequality

What is Marxism's view on social inequality?

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Perspective

It sees inequality as rooted in capitalist economic structures and class struggle.

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Bourgeoisie & Proletariat

Who are the bourgeoisie and proletariat?

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Classes

Bourgeoisie are owners of production; proletariat are the working class.

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Exploitation

What is exploitation according to Marxism?

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Definition

Paying workers less than the value of their labor to extract profit.

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Role of Ideology

What role does ideology play in Marxism?

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Explanation

It is used by the ruling class to maintain control and justify inequality.

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Reserve Army of Labour

What is the "reserve army of labour"?

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Definition

A pool of unemployed or underemployed workers that keeps wages low.

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Labelling Theory vs Marxism

How do labelling theory and Marxism differ in focus?

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Comparison

Labelling theory focuses on micro-level interactions; Marxism on macro-level economic structures.

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🌸 Sociology Quiz: Labelling Theory & Marxism

1. What is the origin of labelling theory?

Labelling theory comes from symbolic interactionism, focusing on social interaction and meaning.

2. According to Marxism, who exploits whom?

Marxism argues the capitalist class exploits workers by paying less than the value of their labor.

3. What is a “self-fulfilling prophecy” in labelling theory?

Labels shape behavior, causing individuals to fulfill the predicted role.

4. Which institution is NOT typically considered a tool of ideological control in Marxism?

Marxism considers media, education, and religion as ideological institutions, not weather.

5. What does “master status” refer to?

Master status dominates how others perceive an individual socially.

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