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Applying material from Item P and your knowledge, evaluate the view that social class is still the dominant factor in determining people's life chances today - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 24 - 2019 - Paper 2
Question 24
Applying material from Item P and your knowledge, evaluate the view that social class is still the dominant factor in determining people's life chances today. Item ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Applying material from Item P and your knowledge, evaluate the view that social class is still the dominant factor in determining people's life chances today - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 24 - 2019 - Paper 2
Step 1
Applying material from Item P
Answer
Marxist sociologists firmly position social class as a primary determinant of life chances, positing that individuals’ socio-economic status plays a crucial role in accessing opportunities and resources. These include education, employment, and healthcare, which significantly shape an individual's life trajectory. The argument indicates that wealth disparities and class-based advantages create a cumulative effect on life outcomes.
Step 2
Evaluate the view that social class is still the dominant factor
Answer
Despite the assertions of Marxist theorists, other sociologists argue that the landscape of life chances is far more complex today. Factors like gender and ethnicity have gained recognition as critical influences. For instance, intersectionality theorists advocate that the interplay between these identities can compound disadvantage, leading to a more nuanced understanding of life chances.
While social class remains a significant factor, dismissing the roles of other identities fails to capture the complete picture. Therefore, a nuanced evaluation of life chances today acknowledges that social class is crucial but not singularly dominant. The combined impact of various socio-cultural factors must be considered to fully understand current inequalities and opportunities.