Class and inequality essay

Class inequality

unequal distribution of wealth, income, and other resources among different classes

Class

division of people into groups based on the distribution of material resources and power

Wealth

sum of all assets in a household (Christopher Sarlo)

Income

money one receives regularly (Christopher Sarlo)

Wealth gap

growing divide between the wealthy and poor groups in society caused by income inequality

Income inequality

economic disadvantage relating to status, wealth, and income (Trudy Mercada)

Functionalism

argues social stratification plays an important role in society by recruiting and motivating people to take on specific roles and jobs (ex: doctor)

Conflict theory

argues that social inequality only benefits the dominant group (holding power) and is therefore harmful to the society as a whole

Absolute poverty

income does not meet basic survival needs (food, water, shelter)

Safety nets

programs preventing poverty and economic challenges (ex: food banks)

Example of functionalist reward system

Michelle Maroto: generally higher education leads to higher earnings and greater economic stability

Limits of reward system

Quan-Haase and Tepperman: income inequality it Canada makes it challenging for low-income groups to access higher education- functionalism reward system only benefits high-income groups