Metropolitan class

Definition

The metropolitan class refers to a social group in urban areas that is characterized by its economic status, cultural capital, and influence within society. This group often comprises individuals engaged in higher education, professional sectors, and cultural industries, shaping cultural identities and ethnic relations in cities. The metropolitan class plays a significant role in the creation and reinforcement of cultural norms, leading to distinct social dynamics between different ethnic and social groups.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The metropolitan class is often associated with higher levels of education and income, creating a distinct social identity that influences societal norms and values.
2. Members of the metropolitan class frequently engage in cultural production, including art, literature, and media, which can shape public perceptions of various ethnic groups.
3. This class tends to dominate discussions around multiculturalism and diversity, often setting trends that can marginalize or elevate certain cultural identities.
4. The metropolitan class can also perpetuate social inequalities through gatekeeping in cultural institutions, restricting access for underrepresented groups.
5. Interactions between the metropolitan class and other social groups can lead to both cultural exchange and conflict, impacting the broader dynamics of ethnic relations in urban settings.

Review Questions

• How does the metropolitan class influence cultural identities within urban settings?
  • The metropolitan class significantly influences cultural identities through their roles in education, media, and the arts. By shaping cultural narratives and determining what is considered valuable or prestigious, this group can elevate certain ethnic identities while marginalizing others. Their economic power allows them to promote specific cultural norms, leading to a dynamic where the identities of various groups may adapt to align with or resist these dominant narratives.
• In what ways does social stratification affect the interactions between the metropolitan class and other ethnic groups?
  • Social stratification creates barriers that affect how the metropolitan class interacts with other ethnic groups. The economic and educational advantages held by the metropolitan class can result in unequal power dynamics where their perspectives dominate discussions about diversity and multiculturalism. This can lead to a lack of representation for lower-status ethnic groups in decision-making processes, reinforcing existing inequalities and sometimes fostering tensions between different community members.
• Evaluate the role of urbanization in shaping the characteristics and impact of the metropolitan class on society.
  • Urbanization plays a critical role in shaping the metropolitan class by concentrating economic opportunities, educational institutions, and cultural resources in cities. As populations migrate to urban areas, they bring diverse ethnic backgrounds that interact with the established norms set by the metropolitan class. This can lead to a blending of cultures but may also provoke conflict over resources and representation. Consequently, urbanization not only reinforces the status of the metropolitan class but also challenges it as new voices emerge from diverse communities seeking recognition and equity.

Related terms

Cultural Capital: The non-financial social assets that promote social mobility, including education, intellect, style of speech, dress, or physical appearance.

Social Stratification: The hierarchical arrangement of individuals into divisions of power and wealth within a society.

Urbanization: The process by which an increasing percentage of a population comes to live in urban areas, often leading to changes in social structures and cultural identities.