A Level Sociology OCR Practice Exam

What is a strength of Marxist theory regarding society?

1. It promotes individual entrepreneurship

2. It reduces the tendency of debt

3. It emphasizes competition and inequality

4. It provides a detailed analysis of social roles

The correct answer is: It reduces the tendency of debt

Marxist theory provides a robust critique of capitalist society by highlighting the dynamics between social classes and the inherent inequalities produced by capitalism. The strength of this theory lies in its emphasis on how social structures perpetuate class conflict and exploit labor. One of the core tenets of Marxism is that capitalism inherently leads to the concentration of wealth among a small elite while the working class faces economic exploitation. The options focus on various aspects of societal influence. Promoting individual entrepreneurship, while associated with capitalist frameworks, does not align with Marxist principles which prioritize collective ownership over private enterprise. The notion of reducing the tendency of debt does not directly correlate with Marxist analysis; rather, Marxism critiques the capitalist system that often leads to financial struggles among the proletariat. Marxist theory indeed emphasizes competition and inequality, showcasing how these elements are central to the power dynamics within capitalist societies. It delves into how these factors affect social relations, impacting the lives of individuals and communities. Additionally, the theory offers insights into the roles that individuals play in perpetuating or challenging these structures, but it does so more from a class struggle perspective than a traditional analysis of social roles. Therefore, the power of Marxist theory lies in its critical examination of competition and inequality,