The main focus for this lesson will be an examination of three major theorists in the study of inequality, Karl Marx, Max Weber, and WEB DuBois. There is a substantial body of literature for Marx, Weber and DuBois for our purposes we will focus on a few. For Marx the focus will be on class conflict, particularly the bourgeoisie and proletariat. Also his perceptions of the crisis of capitalism. For Weber, the focus will be on the culture of capitalism, rationalization, the tripartite nature of inequality (class, parties, and status). For DuBois issues surrounding race in particular color line and double consciousness. The central question for us is;

1) how relevant are their ideas today?