Social Class in America: Understanding and Defining

Challenges in Defining Social Class

• Social class is difficult to discuss and define.
• Definitions vary based on societal context.
• Karl Marx's definition: Two classes, bourgeoisie (owners) and proletariat (workers).
• Limitations: Doesn't account for small business owners who work themselves.
• Max Weber's definition: Focuses on the opportunities provided by one's class.

Social Classes in the United States

• Five Broad Classes:
  1. Upper Class
  2. Upper Middle Class
  3. Average Middle Class
  4. Working Class
  5. Lower Class

Upper Class

• Comprises the top of income and wealth distribution.
• Subclass distinctions between "old money" and "new money."
• Wealth often inherited (upper-upper class) or acquired through work (e.g., celebrities).

Middle Class

• Upper Middle Class:

  • Income between $115,000 and $250,000.
  • 15% of income earners.
  • High level of education; prestigious jobs.
  • Financially secure and typically own homes.

• Average Middle Class:

  • Income between $50,000 and $115,000.
  • 35% of income earners.
  • Homeowners but with more debt.
  • White collar jobs, often public university-educated.

Working Class

• Also known as lower-middle class.
• Income between $25,000 and $50,000.
• 30% of Americans.
• Manual labor jobs, sensitive to economic shifts.

Lower Class

• Income less than $25,000.
• Jobs are typically part-time, hourly, with no benefits.
• 20% of Americans; bottom quintile.
• Likely to live in poverty-stricken areas.
• Poverty in America:
  • Federal Poverty Level (FPL) for a family of four: $24,600 (2017 data).
  • 13.5% live below this line.
  • Many working poor, especially single mothers.
  • Feminization of Poverty: Higher poverty rates among women.

Causes of Poverty

• Debates on individual failings vs. structural issues.
• Moynihan Report: Blames cultural factors in Black communities.
• William Julius Wilson: Emphasizes institutional and historical barriers.

Conclusion

• The lecture covers the distinct social classes in the US and insights into American poverty.
• Upcoming discussions on how these structures affect American lifestyles.

Additional Information

• Crash Course Sociology:
  • Produced in Missoula, MT.
  • Supported by Patreon and patrons like Ben Holden-Crowther.