Final answer:
Class consciousness refers to the understanding among members of the same socioeconomic class that they share similar political and economic interests in opposition to other classes, which is vital for social change and can lead to social revolution according to Karl Marx's theory.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concept of class consciousness is best described as the awareness of one's rank within society and that individuals in a similar economic tier hold common political and economic interests that stand in opposition to those of other classes. Karl Marx, a prominent figure in sociology and economics, believed that in a capitalist society, the proletariat, or working class, existed merely as a 'class in itself' – a group defined by their relation to the means of production. However, for substantial social change to occur, Marx posited that the proletariat must evolve into a 'class for itself,' whereby they achieve class consciousness and become advocates for social reforms. This transition is critical for initiating a social revolution.
Contrary to class consciousness, Marx also described the phenomenon of 'false consciousness,' where the working class unknowingly adopts the ideology of the ruling class, which undermines their own interests. Therefore, it's imperative for social hierarchies to be challenged and for workers to recognize the systemic inequalities imposed by capitalism, where the class system is underpinned by both social factors and individual accomplishments. Awareness of their collective economic conditions can foster solidarity among workers, leading to the potential for political mobilization and change.