Class

Book Details

• ISBN: 9788131610541

• Binding: Hardcover

• Languages: English

• Publisher: Rawat Publications

• Pages: 107
  

About the Book

Social class is one of the most debated and complex concepts in sociology, often being misunderstood or poorly defined. In this book, Richard Scase offers a clear and accessible introduction to the analysis of social class. He examines the role of social class in shaping relationships and social structures, especially in Western capitalist societies. Through the lens of class and its relation to exploitation, Scase highlights the persistence of class divisions even in the wake of the failure of Soviet and Eastern European state socialism.

The book also explores the limitations of Marxist theory, especially Marx’s vision of abolishing class, which, by the end of the twentieth century, is seen as utopian. Scase uses his analysis to argue that, while Marxist categories remain valuable tools, the reality of class division continues to define the social fabric of capitalist societies.

Contents

1. The Relevance of Class

2. Class and Stratification: Patterns of Rewards

3. Class and Stratification: Patterns of Opportunity

4. Class and Stratification: Some Collective Responses

5. Conclusions

About the Author

Richard Scase is a Professor of Sociology at the University of Kent at Canterbury. He has authored and edited fourteen books, including Reluctant Managers (1989) and Poor Work: Disadvantage and the Division of Labour (1991). His current research focuses on the social relations within 'professional' organizations and comparative studies of Eastern Europe post-socialism.