Class in Contemporary Britain

Abstract

Britain is one of the most unequal countries in the western world: the richest one per cent own a vast proportion of the wealth, while both the pay gap and spending habits remain incredibly divisive. How do such divisions reflect contemporary ideas of class? In what way does economic life affect individuals and social relationships? What are the implications for society as a whole?This thoroughly revised second edition of Class in Contemporary Britain uses class theory to interrogate and explain patterns and trends in economic inequalities, and to explore their consequences from a sociological view. Addressing and debating timely questions, this new edition:• Assesses different ways of mapping class structures through class schemes • Highlights the continued importance of class in sociological study and analyses contemporary social class divisions• Explores key topics, including social mobility, voting habits and education • Reflects on recent changes and developments in the field, from environmental and technological concerns to shifts in class demographicsThis comprehensive and accessible book disentangles the complex ties between economic, social and political perspectives on class in contemporary Britain. It is essential reading for all social sciences students who are studying class.