Unlike the caste system, which primarily determines an individual’s position at birth and does not permit mobility, the class system offers a more open approach. In a class system, individuals born into a particular class can, through hard work and achievement, move into a higher class. This characteristic makes the class system relatively open, allowing for social mobility.

Why are Social Classes Created?

Social classes are created mainly due to the unequal distribution of wealth, power, and prestige within a society. This unequal distribution results in the emergence of economic and social classes with varying levels of status and influence.

What is Class? | What is Social Class | Definitions of Class

According to scholars Tischler, Whyton, and Hunter, “A social class is a group of people who share the same opportunities, the same economic and occupational status, the same attitudes and behavior patterns, and the same way of life.”

Karl Marx’s Concept of Class

From a Marxist perspective, a class is a social group whose members share a common relationship with the means of production or forces. Marx identified two major classes in society:

1. Bourgeoisie: The capitalist class, which owns the means of production.
2. Proletariat: The working class, which does not own the means of production but provides labor for production.

The first class, the bourgeoisie, are the “haves,” as they own the means of production, while the second class, the proletariat, are the “have-nots” as they do not own the means of production.

Max Weber’s Concept of Class

Max Weber also emphasized the importance of economic factors in defining social classes. According to Weber, “A class is a group of individuals who occupy the same position in a market economy and thus enjoy the same economic rewards.”

In feudal society, Weber identified four major classes, while in a capitalist society, he recognized mainly four classes:

1. The Propertied Upper Class
2. The Propertyless White Collar Workers
3. The Petty Bourgeoisie
4. The Manual Working Class

These classes are based on economic status and have further sub-classes, resulting in a more intricate class structure.

Three Types of Class on Economic Status:

• Upper Class (including Upper Upper Class and Upper Lower Class)
• Middle Class (including Upper Middle Class and Lower Middle Class)
• Lower Class (including Upper Lower Class and Lower-Lower Class)

Understanding the class system and its nuances is crucial for comprehending the dynamics of social stratification