Description
Author DasGupta inquires into the structures that create and perpetuate social inequality in the U.S. In Part 1, she argues that inequality results from the natural functioning of capitalism and amounts to violation of the social compact. She begins with a description of socioeconomic inequality using statistical evidence, and how a person's class status shapes his life chances. The discussion continues with the nature of our economic system, inequality as a byproduct of the system, and the amplification of inequality by globalization, financial speculation, and mechanization. DasGupta examines links between government and the economy and how the educational system perpetuates inequality.
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Does everyone in the US have an equal chance to "make it"? What explains the enduring power of racism and sexism? How does our sociopolitical system generate inequality? These are just a few of the questions explored in this accessible introduction to the complex problem of social stratification. Kasturi DasGupta clearly explains the social and economic mechanisms that serve to preserve and even deepen social stratification in the US. Enriched with case studies and examples throughout, her text is carefully designed both to engage students and to help them see past cultural myths to grasp the underpinnings and consequences of social inequality.CONTENTS:Exploring Inequalities.STRUCTURES OF INEQUALITY.Our Divided Society Today.How Inequality Shapes Life Chances.The Nature of the Economic System.Globalization and Changing Economic Structures.The Political Economy of Inequality.Education: The Great Equalizer?INTERSECTING SYSTEMS OF INEQUALITY.Making Sense of Intersecting Inequalities.Gender.Race.Nativism, Citizenship, and Colonialism.IS CHANGE POSSIBLE?Advocating for Workers.Seeking Alternative Social Futures.
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