THEORECTICAL PERSPECTIVES - WEBER

What is the basic assumption of Weber’s theory on poverty?

Weber believes that poverty results from deep, structural sources of inequality related to capitalism.

According to Weber, what determines a person’s class position?

A person’s class position depends on their market situation, which is dependent on their ability to influence the labor market for their benefit.

How do skilled and unskilled workers experience the labor market differently?

Skilled workers (such as professionals) are in high demand and can manipulate the labor market to secure higher wages. Unskilled workers, lacking specialized skills and training, have lower wages and fewer job opportunities.

What is the "underclass," according to Weber?

The underclass is a marginalized group in society that is uneducated, unskilled, and unemployable, making them vulnerable to poverty.

How does technology impact unskilled workers?

Technological advancements (such as mechanization and automation) reduce the demand for unskilled labor, making these workers more vulnerable to job loss, redundancy, and temporary contracts.

How do multinational and transnational companies contribute to poverty?

These companies, invited by governments to provide employment, offer low wages and poor working conditions due to competition among developing countries.

How does subcontracting affect workers' job security?

Large companies subcontract work to smaller firms, which often provide temporary jobs with no union membership, leading to job insecurity and increasing the risk of poverty.

How does Weber’s theory ignore worker protections?

The theory overlooks the role of organizations like the International Labour Organization (ILO), which monitors multinational corporations to ensure worker rights are protected.

Why is Weber’s view on subcontracted workers incomplete?

Not all subcontracted workers are poorly compensated; for example, oil companies in Trinidad and Tobago pay subcontracted workers the same as regular employees.

How does Weber’s theory misrepresent poverty?

The theory suggests that the poor are trapped in their condition, but in reality, many people born into disadvantaged homes escape poverty through education, employment, and social mobility.