Stuff You Should Know Short Stuff: Bourgeoisie
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Jan 15, 2025 Discover the intriguing evolution of the term 'bourgeoisie' and its shifting meanings across different cultures and time periods. From its neutral roots to a term of disdain in Marxist contexts, this discussion highlights how language reflects societal attitudes. Explore the playful transformation of 'bourgeois' into a critique of pretentious behavior, complete with a nod to the disco hit 'Bougie Bougie.' The podcast also dives into the distinctions between 'new money' and 'old money,' revealing how wealth influences social dynamics today.
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Bourgeois: US vs. France
- "Bourgeois" in America is a put-down, implying someone is basic.
- In France, it's a compliment, meaning refined or well-mannered.
Marx's Influence
- Karl Marx redefined "bourgeois" in the Communist Manifesto (1848).
- It became associated with the capital-owning class exploiting the working class.
Wobblies and Bourgeois
- The Industrial Workers of the World (Wobblies) further cemented the negative connotation of "bourgeois" in the US.
- They even coined the slang "bourjois" (B-U-R-J-O-I-S), which eventually morphed into slang for "BS."