Theorizing Transnational Class Formation: Novel Approaches to the Study of Transnational Inequalities and Class-Making

Abstract

Transnational class formation has been a subject of considerable interest in recent years. This article provides the theoretical and thematic framework to the special theme on ‘Transnational class formation: identities, practices and symbolic classifications’ and presents a review of current literature on transnational social classes, arguing that we need to complement this literature by also considering transnational class-making. We introduce several theoretical approaches and concepts, emphasizing the role of (self-)classification, distinction, symbolic boundaries and intersectionality for analyses of transnational class-making. Drawing on the contributions collected in this special theme, we conclude by presenting some potential challenges and unresolved questions concerning the issue of transnational class formation.