The British Journal of Sociology
Volume 51 No. 4 December 2000
pages 663-680
Abstract
Distinguishing between an explanatory and a normative interest in social stratification, this paper considers the relation between class analysis and the value of equality. Starting from the familiar distinction between (in)equality of position and (in)equality of opportunity, and noting the extent to which mobility research focuses on the latter, it suggests that class positions can themselves be characterised in terms of the opportunities they yield to those occupying them. This enables the clear identification of the kinds of inequality that research findings presented in terms of class categories, and using odds ratios, do and do not tell us about. The significance of those findings from a normative perspective is then discussed, and their limitations are emphasized - though the paper also explains in what ways they are indeed of normative relevance.
Keywords: class analysis, equality, opportunity, social mobility, social stratification, social justice
Adam Swift
Balliol College
Oxford