Questions and Answers
What defines the upper (capitalist) class?
What is the upper middle class characterized by?
Highly educated professionals who have built careers.
What qualifications typically define the middle class?
A two-year or four-year college degree.
What describes the working class?
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Who are considered the working poor?
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What is the defining characteristic of the underclass?
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Study Notes
Upper (Capitalist) Class
- Represents the wealthiest and most powerful segment of society.
- Influential on the economy and social structures, despite a small population size.
- Two subcategories: upper upper class (old money) and lower upper class (new money).
Upper Middle Class
- Composed of highly educated professionals with established careers.
- Income sources can include revenue from family-owned businesses.
Middle Class
- Generally characterized by individuals holding a two-year or four-year college degree.
- Occupations are secure, featuring opportunities for career advancement.
Working Class
- Includes semi-skilled machine operators and various factory workers.
- Occupations often involve routine tasks requiring minimal skill training.
- Some members are employed in "pink-collar" jobs that are low-paying and non-manual.
Working Poor
- Positioned just below the poverty line, holding typically unskilled jobs.
Underclass
- Consists of individuals who are poor, unemployed, and possess low levels of education.
- Experiences high rates of unemployment, often due to age, disability, or discrimination based on race or ethnicity.
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Description
Test your understanding of the characteristics of various social classes with this quiz. Explore the defining traits of the upper class and upper middle class, among others. Perfect for students looking to deepen their knowledge of social structures in sociology.
