Urban middle class : concept, theoretical framework, models & empirical studies

Author: Seema Saeed

AIT Library Call Number: AIT SSPR no. HS-83-02

Year: 1982

Academic Program: Human Settlement (HS)

Type: Special Studies Project Report (M. Sc.) – Asian Institute of Technology, 1992

Examination Committee: Karl E. Weber (Chairperson); Jean Pierre Delsol (Co-Chairperson); (Examination Committee Members)

Abstract: Modern class theories view social classes as socio-economic entities which are defined by cultural values and norms, as well as the material standing of individuals. Industrialization gives rise to a three-class society, in which an intermediate class has emerged. This middle class ranges from the non-manual white-collar workers who enjoy a better social and economic position than the manual workers of the working class, to the skilled technical experts who stand just below the rich upper class in the social structure. Middle class is often seen as an urban phenomenon. Various fields of study have researched the middle class and its potential as a strong social driving force. Through the review of literature, this paper attempts to understand the middle class as a socio-economic institution of modern societies.

Scholarship Donor(s):

Note: A special study submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science, School of Engineering and Technology

Advisory: Full-text is available at https://library.ait.ac.th/ (accessible to local ip address only)

Search keywords index: Seema Saeed Urban middle class : concept, theoretical framework, models & empirical studies Human Settlement (HS) Middle classes