Overview
The lecture explores the concept of elite culture, examining its characteristics, evolution, and ongoing significance in distinguishing social power and group boundaries.
Defining Elite Culture
- Elite culture refers to the practices, events, and symbols adopted by high-status social groups.
- Historically, elite culture contrasted with "low culture," but this boundary is less clear today.
- Pierre Bourdieu emphasized "cultural capital" and "habitus"—learned manners, taste, and etiquette—as key to elite socialization.
Functions and Evolution of Elite Culture
- Elite cultural practices foster group cohesion and signal membership to others.
- These practices distinguish elites from non-elites, often through language, taste, or knowledge.
- The divide between high (elite) and low (popular) culture is less stark today due to more varied and omnivorous elite tastes.
- Elites increasingly adopt both high and popular culture elements, making boundaries between groups less defined.
Culture, Power, and Social Dynamics
- Elite culture helps control access to resources such as wealth, knowledge, and influence.
- External symbols (e.g., attending the opera, exclusive sports) act as markers of distinction, but can also be targets of critique.
- As non-elites aspire to elite symbols, they may also criticize them for representing undue privilege.
- Elites sometimes embrace popular culture to avoid appearing superior and to broaden their appeal (e.g., engaging with celebrities).
- The interaction between elite and non-elite groups is often paradoxical and dynamic.
Case Studies and Examples
- Crimean Tatars’ elite culture blended European and Islamic influences, highlighting elite diversity.
- Russian elites shifted from displaying wealth to adopting refined tastes and philanthropy to justify their status.
- In various societies, elite events (like symphony orchestras and dressage) still symbolize exclusivity despite changing public attitudes.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Elite Culture — Cultural practices and symbols associated with high-status social groups.
- Cultural Capital — Knowledge, tastes, and skills valued by elites (Bourdieu).
- Habitus — Deeply ingrained habits and dispositions formed through socialization (Bourdieu).
- Distinction — The use of culture to signal social boundaries and superiority.
- Strategic Elites — Groups with major influence over societal resources (Keller).
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review Pierre Bourdieu’s concepts of cultural capital and habitus.
- Reflect on examples of elite culture in current society.
- Read case studies on Crimean Tatars, Russian elites, and celebrity culture for deeper understanding.