The sociologist that focused on income and wealth when studying social stratification was Karl Marx. He was a prominent figure in sociology and economics, known for his theories on capitalism, class struggle, and the unequal distribution of wealth in society. Marx argued that social stratification is primarily based on economic factors, specifically the ownership of the means of production.
One of Marx's key concepts was the division of society into two main classes: the bourgeoisie (owners of the means of production) and the proletariat (workers who sell their labor). According to Marx, the bourgeoisie exploit the proletariat to generate profits, leading to inequality and social conflict.
Marx's analysis of income and wealth as central components of social stratification has had a lasting impact on the field of sociology and continues to influence discussions on class, inequality, and economic justice.
