In this chapter you will find out what social classes are. Based on the definitions, you will see how big each class is and who is in them. You will also learn something about the relationships among different classes, and the ambiguities about class that operate in U.S. society today. Questions in each section will help develop your thinking about the issues. Talk about the questions with friends or co-workers before coming to any conclusions.
Social class is based on power.
We often think of class in terms of different incomes or life styles, and it is true that those differences exist. But the basis of class differences is in the different amounts of power people have, at work and in the larger society. Income and power are obviously related. Now think of your class situation in terms of power. Power can be visible, as when a supervisor has authority over a workforce.