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The Triadic Structure of Class
Class is structured around three key components: money, education, and cultural taste or habitus. Lower classes typically view class primarily through the lens of money, where income determines social status. In contrast, the middle class sees education as a critical factor, where attaining a degree signifies entry into a higher social tier, even if the job associated with that degree pays less than other occupations. The upper classes prioritize cultural taste, which encompasses opinions, habits, and customs. This includes engagement with specific social activities, consumption of media, and participation in elite events, reflecting refinement and social distinction. The insights highlight that simply having wealth does not guarantee class status, illustrating the complexities of social stratification where education and cultural engagements also play pivotal roles.