Question

Who among the following has propounded the conflict theory of social stratification ?

• A. Weber
• B. Parsons
• C. Marx
• D. Davis

Hint:

For stratification theories, remember this simple pairing: Conflict Theory = Karl Marx; Functionalist Theory = Davis \& Moore/Parsons; Multidimensional Theory = Max Weber.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks to identify the primary sociologist associated with the conflict theory of social stratification. Social stratification refers to the hierarchical arrangement of individuals into social classes, castes, and divisions within a society.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- (C) Karl Marx: He is the principal proponent of the conflict theory. Marx argued that social stratification is created by the differing economic interests and conflict between the two main classes in a capitalist society: the \textit{bourgeoisie} (owners of the means of production) and the \textit{proletariat} (workers). He saw class struggle as the engine of social change.
- (B) Talcott Parsons and (D) Kingsley Davis (along with Wilbert Moore) are leading figures of the \textit{functionalist theory} of stratification, which argues that social inequality is necessary and beneficial for the functioning of society.
- (A) Max Weber also offered a conflict-based perspective on stratification, but he proposed a multidimensional view based on Class, Status, and Party. While he is a conflict theorist, Karl Marx is considered the founder and most central figure of the class conflict theory of stratification.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Karl Marx is the sociologist who propounded the foundational conflict theory of social stratification based on class struggle.