1. Title: Marxism, Functionalism and the class system
Key terms:
Title: Marxism, Functionalism and the class system
Starter:
In pairs, discuss the questions you answered for homework.

2. What do you think this means?

3. Karl Marx (1818-1883) Founder of Marxism
Marx calls the system we live in CAPITALISM and says we can all be divided into TWO basic classes: Bosses and Workers
Bosses are also known as the BOURGEOISIE or the RULING CLASS.
Why do you think they are referred to as the ruling class?

4. The Bosses are called the bourgeoisie or the ruling class because Marx believes they control society.
The ruling class benefit in every way from how society functions, but workers get far less than deserved.
Do you agree or disagree with this? Give reasons why?

5. Marxism is a structionalist theory
Marxism is a structionalist theory. This means that individuals are seen as less important than the social structure of society. The economic organisation of society is responsible for the behaviour of individuals Can you give examples of this? E.g. The underclass and how they behave, is this due to the British economy structure?

6. Marxism believe that society is based on an exploitative and unequal relationship between the TWO classes. The Bourgeoisie are more economically dominant as they own the means of production (e.g. machinery) The Proleteriat only own their ability to work and they sell this to the Bourgeoisie for a wage This is unequal because the ‘bosses’ want maximum labour for the lowest cost. This means they have more money which is used to further expand the inequalities between the two classes. (e.g. elite represents only 6% of the population)

7. So if society is so unfair, why do we accept it. Is Karl Marx wrong
So if society is so unfair, why do we accept it? Is Karl Marx wrong? Are we happy with our place in society? In pairs, read the sheet given and answer the question above? Are we happy or do we accept it for other reasons??

8. Plenary:
Watch the video and write ONE sentence to summarise how it made you feel
be inspired
Homework:
Research and make a presentation to teach us about Functionalism and the class system.
E.g. what do functionalists believe about the class system
What is their evidence
Include your own personal opinion- whether you agree or disagree with functionalists and why.
I want a PPT presentation so we can each present these next lesson (Monday)