How Social Classes Shape Our Lives: A Simple Review of Inequality Studies

Authors: Ashu Ram

Country: India

Full-text Research PDF File:   View   |   Download

Abstract: This paper discusses the relationship of social class with the lives of people through appraisal of the leading findings of the studies of inequality in the economic, educational, health and social sector. It is based on classical theories (Marx, Weber) and modern theories (Bourdieu, intersectionality) and describes the process of how the notion of class acts structurally as a force and culturally as a form of identity which is extremely widespread in everyday life. The review points at economic inequalities, unequal access to quality education and healthcare, and residential segregation as elementary to class reproduction of the benefits and drawbacks across generations. It also looks at processes of class reproduction e.g., through cultural capital, institutional discrimination and limited social mobility. Comparative approaches can indicate the extent to which the outcomes of class inequality are mediated through the national and regional contexts, demonstrating that policy and social safety nets can play an important role in policing the outcomes. Besides the continuous obstacles, the paper has considered resistance movements, educational advocacy, and collective action in opposing the oppression of classes. To identify the way social class operates as an organizing principle of inequality will hopefully be the theme of this review in a form that is lucid and accessible. It points to the significance of venturing into the issue of class in the context of large-scale social justice, equality, and transformation by combining theoretical knowledge with evidence-based practices. The paper ends with pointing out avenues of future research that can be based on integrated and international perspectives of class.

Keywords: Social Class, Inequality, Cultural Capital, Social Mobility, Structural Inequity

Paper Id: 232658

Published On: 2025-07-22

Published In: Volume 13, Issue 4, July-August 2025

Share this