Class Is Not Commonly Discussed in the United States; Yet

question 47

Essay

Class is not commonly discussed in the United States; yet, it is a system of stratification that profoundly affects peoples' lives. In what class position would you classify yourself and your family? What criteria did you use to determine your class position? Does your class position differ from that of your grandparents? What about your friends? What do you do to increase your social mobility? Do you think your efforts will improve your class position at some point in your lifetime? What other forms of social stratification affect your social mobility?

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Definitions:

Monthly Income

The total amount of income received on a monthly basis from all sources including wages, salaries, benefits, and investments.

Hot Dog

A cooked sausage, traditionally grilled or steamed and served in a sliced bun as a fast-food.

Price

The quantity of cash forecasted, demanded, or paid in return for an item.

Entire Income

The total amount of income received from all sources before any deductions, taxes or expenses are subtracted.