Theories of class inequality

Abstract

By the end of this chapter you should:

• be aware of a wide range of sociological theories on class inequality;

• be able to distinguish between three broad approaches to the explanation of class inequality: meritocracy models, structural theories and class formation approaches;

• have a critical understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of each approach;

• be aware of the variety of theories contained within each approach;

• have practised structured exam questions.