Sociology: Class Positions and Upper Class

Questions and Answers

Which approaches are used to establish class positions?

Occupational status

Bureaucratic authority

Property relations

All of the above (correct)

What do different sociologists consider for establishing class positions?

Occupational status, bureaucratic authority, property relations

What characterizes the upper class?

Extremely exclusive

Majority of the population belongs to it

Removed from the experience of most people

A and B only (correct)

What is the most important aspect of the upper class?

The kind of wealth one has and how old it is Signup and view all the answers

The upper class is considered a dominant ruling class.

False Signup and view all the answers

What does the power elite consist of?

Key people in the economy, government, and military Signup and view all the answers

What are some means by which the upper class governs?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

Match the following terms with their definitions:

Functional Elite Theory = Elites dominate the economy and politics for society's interest Critical Elite Theory = Elites dominate for their own self-interests Power Elite = A small group controlling a disproportionate amount of wealth and decision-making Signup and view all the answers

What influences the existence of the corporate class?

The size of major corporations, concentrated control of stock, networks of interlocking directorates Signup and view all the answers

What does 'interlocking directorates' refer to?

The linking of two or more corporations through at least one of their board members Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Class Positions

Class positions encompass upper, lower, corporate, middle, and working classes, utilizing different sociological criteria.
Criteria include occupational status (Durkheim), bureaucratic authority (Weber), and property relations (Marx).
Convergence of these influences affects individual rewards and life chances in contemporary societies.

Upper Class Characteristics

Upper class members are often seen as exclusive and mysterious, removed from the experiences of the majority.
Typically represent about 0.5% to 1% of the population, indicating high exclusivity.
Wealth is characterized more by lineage and longevity than mere financial status, emphasizing lifestyle over celebrity recognition.

The upper class cultivates class consciousness through social institutions like private schools, exclusive resorts, and cultural events.
Key families display generational wealth and maintain a sense of primary group solidarity.

Influence and Power Dynamics

The upper class is involved in governance but is not viewed as a dominant ruling class.
Governing mechanisms include economic power through ownership of production means and political power via participation, lobby efforts, and shaping policies.

Corporate Class

Comprised of authority figures in major corporations, their power derives from controlling resources rather than personal wealth.
Critiques suggest the upper class may not be a coherent group, with questions about unity and class consciousness.

Evolution of Influence

Modern corporations have diminished the influence of traditional wealthy families, marking a shift toward a corporate class.
The existence of the corporate class hinges on market dominance, stock control, and interlocking directorates among corporations.

Interlocking Directorates

Interlocks reduce competition, facilitate information sharing, and unite corporate leaders in dealings with government.
The inner group of the corporate class represents an elite subset, often linked to large banks and corporations.

Land and Political Economy in Hong Kong

The Hong Kong government relies heavily on land sales for revenue, often leading to collaboration with property developers.
Around 30% of government revenue is derived from land sales, reflecting significant economic stakes in real estate.

Theoretical Perspectives on Elites

Functional Elite Theory posits that elites dominate due to their abilities, serving societal interests.
Critical Elite Theory argues that elites act in self-interest, often harming lower classes.

Power Elite Concept

Represents a small group controlling significant economic, political, and military power, distinct from the hereditary upper class.
Class rule manifests through organizational structures rather than direct actions of upper class individuals.

Cultural Bourgeoisie

Comprises intellectuals and professionals who control knowledge and skills, often pursuing individual interests and power within society.

Description

Explore the dynamics of class positions, focusing on upper, lower, corporate, middle, and working classes. Delve into how sociologists define these groups using criteria from thinkers like Durkheim, Weber, and Marx. Understand the cultural and social implications of the upper class in contemporary society.

Sociology: Class Positions and Upper Class

Questions and Answers

Which approaches are used to establish class positions?