Social Class Culture

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer discusses that cultural products produced and consumed today do have connections to a particular social class. The writer maintains that the concept of class in relation to culture is meaningful today. The writer discusses that social class matters not only in fashion, but also with regards to the food industry. The writer concludes that social class and cultural consumption and production are perhaps not so much a reality as something to strive for that determines who we are.

Outline:
Consumption
Production

From the Paper:

"Consumption: Who shops in second hand thrift stores? What do people look for there? A Ralph Lauren top, a dress or jacket by Anna Klein, a John's NY skirt; why? Because these are brand names for the middle class consumer. The lower middle class buyer may desire these items also, but needs to limit his or her consumption to sale days or half-price specials. Thrift shops are frequented by another definite class of low income shopper who is happy with an inexpensive find in good condition, be it an outfit, a gently used toy, dishes without visible chips or cracks, CD's for teens in the family; the list is endless, and so are the possibilities for those who can afford to spend a few dollars."
"Household products by Martha Stewart may be top of the line and dream bargains for a middle class person, be it a newly arrived set of dishes, most recent design line of bed linen or the latest cook book. The lower middle class consumer will watch for sale events on these items that were produced with a certain class of consumer in mind."

Sample of Sources Used:

• European Sociological Review. Vol. 19 2003. Oxford. Oxford University Press.
• Mihi , Mirola. Management Vol. II, 2006. ulinc, Gordana.
• Shipman, Alan. "Lauding the Leisure Class: Symbolic Conduct and Conspicuous Consumption". Review of Social Economy. Vol. 62, 2004.
• Turner, Katherine. Journal of Social History. Vol. 39, 2005.

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