Question

Two concepts associated with the postmodern sociologist Pierre Bourdieu include cultural capital and social capital. Cultural capital refers to noneconomic goods, such as family background and education, which are often reflected in a knowledge of language and the arts. Social capital refers to the collective benefit of social networks.

question:
Ted grew up in a working-class family. His father was a plumber and his mother was a homemaker. Ted won 50 million dollars in the lottery and moved to a neighborhood with multi-million dollar homes. Ted soon realized that he was the only person in his neighborhood that won the lottery. All of his neighbors grew up very rich and were used to living the millionaire lifestyle. Ted, on the other hand, was used to a more working-class lifestyle. Because of his upbringing, he found it difficult to connect with his neighbors on a social level even though he had as much money as they did, and in some cases even more than they did. What types of cultural and social capital differences might Ted have when compared to his neighbors? What types of hobbies and interests might Ted have? What types of hobbies and interests might Ted's neighbors have that he doesn't have?
250 words

Answer 1

Ted has different forms of cultural and social capital than his new wealthy neighbors. Since Ted grew up in a working-class family, he is likely knowledgeable about and comfortable with the constraints of a limited budget as well as the nuances of working-class life, values, and culture. In contrast, his neighbors grew up in an affluent environment and are used to accessing and being surrounded by luxury goods and services. This difference in cultural background could make it hard for Ted to connect to his wealthier neighbors on a social level, since they may not relate to or understand Ted's upbringing.

Ted might have hobbies and interests related to his working-class background. He might enjoy activities such as hunting, fishing, playing sports, or consuming media that speaks to his background and values. In contrast, Ted's neighbors may prefer leisurely pursuits like playing golf, going to the opera and theater, traveling to exotic locations, or engaging in expensive hobbies like collecting art or antiques. Ted may also be less comfortable with formal social gatherings and events which many wealthy individuals enjoy, such as fundraisers and parties.

The differences between Ted's working-class background and his new wealthy neighbors can make for an uncomfortable situation for both, but by recognizing and appreciating the potential shared interests and values, Ted can begin to build bridges across the social divide.