Theories of poverty and inequality (functionalist, Marxist, Weberian)

AQA

GCSE

This study area demands a rigorous analysis of the structural and cultural explanations for social stratification. Candidates must evaluate the competing theoretical frameworks of Functionalism (consensus/necessity), Marxism (conflict/exploitation), and Weberianism (market situation/fragmentation). Assessment focuses on the application of these classical theories to contemporary patterns of poverty, wealth distribution, and social mobility. High-scoring responses will critique the relevance of 'class' in post-industrial society and assess the interplay between economic capital, status, and power (AO3).

Objectives

Exam Tips

Pitfalls

Key Terms

Mark Points

What You Need to Demonstrate

Key skills and knowledge for this topic

Credit accurate application of Davis and Moore's concept of 'role allocation' and 'functional importance' when explaining inequality as necessary.
Award marks for explicit links between Marxist theory and terminology such as 'bourgeoisie', 'proletariat', and 'false class consciousness'.
Candidates must distinguish Weberian 'status' and 'party' from economic 'class', explaining how these distinct dimensions affect life chances.
Reward evaluation that critiques the concept of meritocracy using evidence of structural barriers (e.g., institutional racism or glass ceilings).

Marking Points

Key points examiners look for in your answers

Credit accurate application of Davis and Moore's concept of 'role allocation' and 'functional importance' when explaining inequality as necessary.
Award marks for explicit links between Marxist theory and terminology such as 'bourgeoisie', 'proletariat', and 'false class consciousness'.
Candidates must distinguish Weberian 'status' and 'party' from economic 'class', explaining how these distinct dimensions affect life chances.
Reward evaluation that critiques the concept of meritocracy using evidence of structural barriers (e.g., institutional racism or glass ceilings).

Examiner Tips

Expert advice for maximising your marks

💡In 12-mark 'Discuss how far' questions, ensure the conclusion provides a definitive judgement on the validity of the statement.
💡Explicitly reference the 'Item' in 12-mark responses; quote the text to trigger theoretical recall (e.g., 'The item mentions low pay, which Marxists would argue...').
💡Do not merely list theories; juxtapose them. Use phrases like 'However, Weberians would critique this Marxist view by arguing...'.
💡Allocate strictly 1 minute per mark; spend no more than 15 minutes on the final 12-mark essay.

Common Mistakes

Pitfalls to avoid in your exam answers

Confusing Weber's 'status' with general popularity rather than social standing/prestige.
Presenting the 'New Right' and 'Functionalism' as identical; failing to distinguish Murray's underclass theory from Durkheimian functionalism.
Providing anecdotal descriptions of poverty (e.g., 'not having money') rather than sociological definitions (relative vs. absolute poverty).

Key Terminology

Essential terms to know

Likely Command Words

How questions on this topic are typically asked

Identify

Describe

Explain

Discuss how far

Examine

Compare

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