This essay is going to look at both the Karl Marx theory and Max Weber's theory of stratification. " Stratification refers to the division of society into layers. These layers are distinguished by unequal rewards and life chances. Most sociologists see stratification as involving a classification not only of the groups, but also of the relationships that exist between them"(Longman 1996 pg12) The essay will concentrate mainly on stratification in the class system. To begin the essay will look at the Marxist perspective then go on to look at Weber's perspective and some of the similarities and differences in the two theories. Secondly the essay will look at the strengths and weaknesses of both theories, being applied to contemporary UK society, finally the conclusion will seek to explain which theory is more relevant to today's society and why.
             "The economy was society for him"(Shepard J 1999 pg 188) Marx's theory is based on the economics in society. Marx talks about the western world as being capitalist societies. Marx explains that the capitalist societies superstructure works by there being two classes in society the bourgeoisie and the proletariat. The bourgeoisie are the owners of land the upper class. The proletariat are the workers, labourers the non-owners of property in society. Marx feels that the bourgeoisie control society by there power over the countries economics, that there is a exploitative relationship between the two classes that the bourgeoisie fight amongst each other to maintain there place in society by making more profit by making their labours work longer hours to produce higher numbers of products for sale and not paying the workers their worth. Marx saw that work, government, law, religion and morality are all institutions that are economically controlled thus controlling the proletariats. Marx's theory said that society don't determine their own lives tha...