We've had a few comments lately about the word 'class'. As the author of The Old Money Book, which has 'Secrets of the Upper Class' in its title, I feel it's important to clarify the term, the context in which it's used, and how I use it.
'Class' has been defined as:
- A set, collection, group, or configuration containing members regarded as having certain attributes or traits in common; a kind or category.
- A division based on quality, rank, or grade, as.
- A grade of mail.
When we speak of 'social classes' we often talk about people who are members the upper class, middle class, working class, or, more rarely, lower class. The upper class generally has more money, more education, more privilege, more influence, and more family history than the other classes. Sometimes they 'work' at professions or jobs. Sometimes they hold political office. Sometimes they lead charitable efforts. Sometimes they just travel, drink, and party.
The middle class, which can be subdivided into upper middle class and lower middle class, is in a somewhat comfortable position, working for a living, trying to save and invest, enjoying leisurely weekends, and raising their children. They are often college educated and aspire to have a secure retirement and leave something for the next generation in terms of inheritance.
The working class is less educated and works in less skilled occupations. They go from paycheck to paycheck, often without an idea about what a long term future looks like, personally or professionally. They play the lottery in hopes of achieving financial security. They watch television more than they other classes, eat less healthy food, and are less active.
The lower class are often unemployed and sometimes unhoused. Their focus is on just getting by, surviving another day or another week. Their lives have little structure and often little hope.
Obviously, my summaries are generalizations. Exceptions abound, I am certain. But for the most part, my observations will correlate with academics who study this subject.
The important distinction that needs to be made is this: we cannot equate 'class', which is a synonym for 'category', with 'value'. Regardless of which social class a person belongs to, they have an equal value and should have equal rights in our society. While this is sometimes not true, it is a standard to which we should aspire.
In fact, I would argue that many times it is the lower class and working class who should have more value in our society: they are the most at risk, and sometimes this vulnerability is not of their own making. They are at a disadvantage in some regards: they may have been born and raised in a violent or abusive home environment. They may not have access to healthcare, decent housing, or quality education. Just as importantly, they may lack role models and the support of someone telling them they they are worthwhile and that a better life is possible.
The upper class and upper middle class have access to education, often stable and quite comfortable home environments, and vibrant, dynamic, and motivated support systems. These are often referred to as 'resources'. It is the equitable and efficient allocation of these resources that government officials work to craft, legislate, and implement.
To be clear: when an airline offers 'first class' seats, the seats and the services offered are often 'better' i.e. more comfortable and more attentive. When we talk about one person being in a different 'social class', we are also talking about a different set of characteristics--income level, educational level, buying habits, perhaps--but we are not implying that one person is 'better' than another.
Ironically, when we meet someone who is gracious and polite to everyone they encounter regardless of the person's socioeconomic position or occupation, we often refer to that person as someone who has, yes, class.
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