Max Weber's concept of class

Max Weber also emphasized the importance of economic factors in defining social classes. According to Weber, “A class is a group of individuals who occupy the same position in a market economy and thus enjoy the same economic rewards.”

Weber identified four major classes in a capitalist society.

The Propertied Upper Class
The Propertyless White Collar Workers
The Petty Bourgeoisie
The Manual Working Class

Let's explore short explanations for each type of class

These classes are based on economic status and have further sub-classes, resulting in a more intricate class structure.

According to Weber, the first class in a capitalist society is, the Propertied Upper Class

This class comprises wealthy individuals who derive their income primarily from ownership of significant amounts of property and assets. They often wield considerable economic and social influence.

Weber stated that the second class in a capitalist society is the Propertyless White Collar Workers.

This group consists of salaried professionals and office workers who lack significant ownership of productive assets. While they may have job security and a stable income, they don't possess substantial capital.

3rd class in a capitalist society is, The Petty Bourgeoisie:

The petty bourgeoisie includes small business owners, entrepreneurs, and self-employed individuals. They have some ownership of means of production but are distinct from the large capitalist class.

4th class in a capitalist society is, The Manual Working Class:

Comprising manual laborers and industrial workers, this class relies on physical labor for income. They typically lack significant ownership of property or means of production and may face economic challenges.

"Max Weber also said that in capitalist society, three types of classes are formed based on economic status. He stated that the first class is the Upper Class, the second is the Middle Class, and the third is the Lower Class. Each class is further divided into Upper and Lower categories.

In the Upper Class, he included the Upper Upper Class and the Upper Lower Class. Within the Middle Class, there is the Upper Middle Class and the Lower Middle Class. Similarly, in the Lower Class, there is the Upper Lower Class and the Lower Lower Class.

This classification illustrates how our society has different classes based on economic status