The conceptualization of lifestyle in sociological theory

Abstract

Abstract: In the analysis of social stratification, relevant contemporary sociologists pay much more attention to lifestyle, than to traditional concepts of social classes and social strata. It is a reflection of the dynamics of modern society that develops much more complex stratification schemes that are analysed with a new categorical apparatus that includes lifestyle. This article aims to present the conceptualization of lifestyle in the theory of two classical authors in sociology, such as Thorstein Veblen and Max Weber and three contemporary sociologists, such as Pierre Bourdieu, Ulrich Beck and Anthony Giddens. By analysing the concepts of these authors we will discover the evolution, characteristics and meaning of life style in different socio-historical contexts.