Read Item F below and answer the question that follows - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 9 - 2017 - Paper 2

In evaluating the view that social class differences in health chances arise primarily from cultural factors, it's essential to consider both sides of the argument.

Cultural Factors: Cultural explanations often highlight the values, beliefs, and attitudes that vary significantly between different social classes. For instance, individuals from higher socio-economic backgrounds might prioritize health and wellness, leading to healthier lifestyle choices, such as regular exercise and nutritious diets. They may also possess better knowledge about health issues, often being more proactive about preventive measures. Furthermore, cultural stigmas related to health may influence individuals in lower social classes, leading to a sense of fatalism or neglect regarding health issues.

Material Factors: On the other hand, material explanations emphasize the importance of economic conditions, access to healthcare, and living environments. Research indicates that lower socio-economic classes often face barriers to healthcare, such as financial constraints, lack of access to quality medical facilities, and living in unhealthy environments. These material disadvantages can significantly affect health outcomes and often overshadow cultural explanations. For example, someone may understand the importance of a healthy diet but may lack the financial means to afford healthy food options.

Competing Perspectives: It's crucial to utilize sociological theories such as the Social Model of Health, which combines both cultural and material factors. This approach suggests that health is influenced by a combination of individual choices and broader socio-economic structures. Evaluating health holistically requires acknowledging how these factors intersect. For instance, social structures can limit cultural agency, meaning that even if a cultural shift towards healthier behaviors occurs, it may not translate to improved health if material conditions remain poor.

Conclusion: In conclusion, both cultural and material factors play significant roles in determining health outcomes among social classes. While cultural attitudes can shape health behaviors, material conditions often dictate the capability to act on those attitudes. Therefore, it's overly simplistic to attribute health disparities solely to cultural factors, as the interplay between material factors must also be critically examined.