1. SOSC 103D Social Inequality in HK
Lecture 3: Theories of inequality

2. Understanding a Stratification System
Historical Approach
Comparative Approach
Basic Parameters
Rigidity (normative closed vs open divisions)
Ascriptive Processes (method of status or class placement: ascription vs achievement)
Legitimation (justify the stratification system)
Forms of Inequality (economic, status, power)
Degree of Inequality (comparative level)
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3. Varieties of Stratification System (cont’)
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4. Classical Theories of Stratification Emile Durkheim Karl Marx Max Weber
Their perceptions of Industrial Society
Their Main Concerns about the Social and Economic Change
Their Views on Social Inequality
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5. Theories of Stratification
When?
Historical context
What happen?
Social change
Economical change
What is the problem?
How did they perceive the change?
What is their value assumptions?
What is their main concern?
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6. Emile Durkheim Industrial Society Main Concern Social Inequality
Increased complexity
Stratification: Division of labour
Main Concern
Individualism
Social integration and social order
Moral system
Social Inequality
Unnatural and temporary condition
Eliminated by the strengthened morality
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7. Karl Marx Industrial Society Main Concern Social Inequality
Increased productivity and economic surplus
Human relationship is a relation of production
Capitalist class vs working class
Main Concern
Class Polarization: Accumulation and Exploitation
The Reproduction of stratification
Social Inequality
Development of Capitalism: Class consciousness and class conflicts
Critical and radical - understand it and change it
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8. Max Weber Industrial Society Main Concern Social Inequality
Technology, Science, Rationality
Rational form of organization – Bureaucracy
Main Concern
Iron Cage – impersonality, alienation, bureaucratization
Rational-legal authority
Social Inequality
Multi-dimensional: Class, Status and Power
Pessimistic view
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9. Suggested Readings:
Hurst C. (2004) Social Inequality: Forms, causes and consequences (5/e), New York: Westview, ch.9
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