Question 1: Explain in your own words what Marxists believe about the relationship between the bourgeoisie and the proletariat.

Answer: Marxists believe that the bourgeoisie (the owners of the means of production) exploit the proletariat (the working class) by controlling resources and profits, leading to inequality and class conflict.

Question 2: Describe what is meant by the term 'class struggle' in Marxist theory.

Answer: Class struggle refers to the ongoing conflict between the ruling bourgeoisie and the exploited proletariat, as they have opposing interests in the economic system.

Question 3: Why do Marxists argue that capitalism is an unfair system? Provide two reasons.

Answer: Marxists argue capitalism is unfair because it leads to wealth being concentrated in the hands of a few (the bourgeoisie) while the working class remains poor, and because it exploits workers by paying them less than the value of what they produce.

Question 4: Identify and explain one way Marxists believe capitalism benefits the ruling class at the expense of the workers.

Answer: Marxists believe capitalism benefits the ruling class by allowing them to accumulate wealth through the profits made from workers’ labor, who are paid less than the value they add to products.

Question 5: What does Marxism suggest should happen to capitalism? Explain briefly.

Answer: Marxism suggests that capitalism should be replaced by a classless society through revolution, where the means of production are owned collectively.

Question 6: Draw a simple diagram illustrating the relationship between the bourgeoisie, proletariat, and the state in a capitalist society. Label each part clearly.

Answer: The diagram should show the bourgeoisie at the top controlling the means of production, the proletariat working for the bourgeoisie, and the state serving the interests of the ruling class.

Question 7: Describe one critique of Marxist theory from a sociologist who disagrees with it.

Answer: Some sociologists argue that Marxism overemphasizes class conflict and ignores other factors like culture and individual choice in shaping society.

Question 8: Sketch a scene that represents the idea of 'alienation' as described by Marx. Use a large blank space for your drawing.

Answer: The sketch should depict a worker disconnected from their work, perhaps showing them performing repetitive tasks, feeling isolated or unfulfilled, with little control over the work process.

Question 9: Explain how Marxist theory views the role of education in maintaining social inequality.

Answer: Marxists believe education reinforces social inequality by preparing the working class to accept their position and by transmitting the values of the ruling class.