Classes in Western sociology: in search of conceptualization

This article deals with the problem of multiple interpretations when it comes to the “class” concept in Western sociology. “Class” is not just an artificial term, but a reality. This reality can be treated in different ways. The proposed classification for interpreting classes is more comprehensive than the traditional one represented by Marxism, Weber’s ideas and functionalism. Today's complicated society needs to use a multidimensional approach to class analysis in order to evaluate the social situation of individuals and groups. A multidimensional approach means analyzing different class formation criteria. The main criteria are economical capital, political capital, symbolic capital and (self) identification. Such an approach allows for transforming Weber’s threefold formula of social stratification — which shows class, party and status as being separate stratification categories — into one with an “integral” understanding of the concept of “class”, where the aforementioned categories are no longer separate systems of stratification, but different aspects of one basic stratification unit — the “class”. This allows for overcoming the reductionism attributed to the existing classification of classes, when the latter are viewed as either economic or status groups. In conclusion it is suggested that classes be considered as social groups which vary when it comes to (self) identification, economical, political, symbolic capital, as well as their capacity for conversion.

Abstract licence: CC BY

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