What does 'class consciousness' refer to in Marxist theory?

In Marxist theory, 'class consciousness' refers to the awareness individuals within a social class have regarding their shared interests, struggles, and the socio-economic conditions that shape their lives. This concept emphasizes the importance of recognizing not only their position within the class structure but also the collective identity and solidarity that can arise from such awareness. When members of a class become conscious of their collective situation, they are more likely to unify in pursuit of common goals and to challenge the existing social order that exploits them.

In this context, a lack of class consciousness can lead to a disconnection among the members of the working class, resulting in difficulty organizing for change or recognizing the necessity to challenge the status quo. This awareness is seen as a critical step towards social change and achieving liberation from capitalist structures.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of class consciousness. A belief in cultural superiority pertains more to ethnocentrism than to class awareness. Learning gender roles relates to gender studies rather than class dynamics, and a sociological perspective on aging focuses on the issues related to the elderly rather than class relations. Thus, the emphasis on shared interests within a social class correctly defines class consciousness within the framework of Marxist theory.