Class Identity

Question 1

Habitus

Answer 1

Way of life for a social class.

Archer et al focus on the interaction between WC pupil identities and school, and how this produces underachievement — draw on Bourdieus concept of habitus.

MC habitus seen as more valuable in education so schools put higher value on MC tastes and preferences. Linked to cultural capital.

MC at advantage as teachers then label MC positively — self fulfilling prophecy.

Question 2

Symbolic capital and symbolic violence

Answer 2

Symbolic capital — MC gain from schools as MC habitus worth value.
Whereas school devalues WC habitus.

Bordieu calls this symbolic violence — defining WC lifestyle as inferior this reproduces class structure.

Archer found WC students felt they needed to change to be successful — cost of losing yourself to do well.

Question 3

Nike Identities

Answer 3

Investing in WC brands as seeking alternative ways to create self worth.

Led to conflict with the school dress code as teachers opposed ‘street styles’.