Evaluate the usefulness of the theories of class of Marx for an understanding of patterns of inequality in modern industrialised societies.

Evaluate the usefulness of the theories of class of Marx for an understanding of patterns of inequality in modern industrialised societies. The cornerstone of Marx's class theory is the premise that "the history of all hitherto existing society is the history of class struggles". He perceived society as fundamentally divided between classes in pursuit of conflicting class interests. For Marx, class is defined and structured by the relations concerning; work and labour, and ownership or …

…still useful for an understanding of patterns of inequality in modern industrialised societies because analysis of class divisions and struggles is especially important in developing an understanding of the nature of capitalism. Bibliography Giddens, A, (1982), "Class Structuration and Class Consciousness", Classes, Power and Conflict, (Macmillian), pg 157-183 Heywood, A, (1994), Political Theory, 2nd Ed, (Palgrave), Pg 372- 377 Kamenka, E, (1983), the Portable Karl Marx, (Penguin) Marx, K,(1992), The Communist Manifesto, (Oxford University) McLellan, D, (1975), Marx, (Fontana Press)