What is Classism?
Classism is a form of discrimination that is based on social class or economic status. It involves treating people differently based on their background or the amount of money they have. Just like racism and sexism, classism can have serious negative effects on people’s lives.
Classism has a long history, dating back centuries. In the past, social classes were more clearly defined, with aristocrats and nobility at the top and peasants and laborers at the bottom. This created a rigid social hierarchy that was difficult to break out of. Today, while social classes are less clear-cut, classism still exists, and the gap between the rich and poor continues to widen.
Definition and explanation of Classism
Classism can take many forms, from bullying and teasing to employment and housing discrimination. The most common types of classism include:
- Individual Classism: This occurs when individuals or groups discriminate against others based on their socioeconomic status. It can take many forms, including verbal insults, social exclusion, and physical violence.
- Institutional Classism: This involves discrimination by institutions such as schools, governments, and corporations. For example, people from lower-income families may face barriers to accessing education or job opportunities due to institutional policies.
What are the different types of classism?
There are several different types of classism, including:
- Reverse Classism: This occurs when people from lower-income backgrounds discriminate against those who are more affluent. While it is not as common as other forms of classism, it can still be hurtful and damaging.
- Internalized Classism: This involves individuals who hold negative beliefs about their own social class. For example, someone from a low-income family may believe that they are not deserving of success or that they are inferior to those from more affluent backgrounds.
Signs and Effects of Classism
Signs of Classism
Classism can be difficult to identify, but some signs to look out for include:
- Negative attitudes towards people from different socioeconomic backgrounds
- Stereotyping and making assumptions about people based on their income or social class
- Judging people based on their clothes, possessions, or appearance
- Treating people differently based on their accent or dialect
Effects of Classism on individuals and society
Classism can have serious negative effects on individuals and society as a whole. Some of the effects of classism include:
Low self-esteem and feelings of inadequacy among those who are discriminated against
Social exclusion and isolation
Limited access to education and job opportunities
Higher rates of poverty and homelessness among low-income individuals
Increased social tension and conflict between different socioeconomic groups
Intersectionality and Classism
Intersectionality refers to the way that different forms of discrimination can intersect and overlap. For example, someone who is discriminated against because of their race and their socioeconomic status may face more barriers than someone who is only discriminated against because of their race. It’s important to recognize that classism can intersect with other forms of discrimination, such as racism and sexism, to create even more complex and harmful situations.
Examples of Classism
Workplace discrimination
Classism in the workplace can take many forms, from lower pay and fewer opportunities for advancement for low-income workers, to discriminatory hiring practices that favor those from more affluent backgrounds. According to a study by the Economic Policy Institute, in 2020, the average CEO earned 320 times as much as the average worker. This means that CEOs earn more in one day than the average worker earns in an entire year. This shows that classism is prevalent in the workplace and affects the opportunities and pay of low-income workers.
Education system disparities
Classism can also be seen in disparities within the education system. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, in 2018, only 23% of students from low-income families graduated from college within six years, compared to 58% of students from high-income families. This shows that low-income students face more barriers to accessing higher education and are less likely to succeed once they get there.
Housing discrimination
Housing discrimination is another example of classism, with landlords and property owners discriminating against low-income renters. This can include charging higher rents, requiring higher security deposits, and denying rental applications based on income.
According to a report by the National Fair Housing Alliance, in 2020, there were over 28,000 complaints of housing discrimination, with the majority of complaints related to race, but also including complaints related to income.
Media representation and stereotyping
Classism can also be perpetuated through media representation and stereotypes. For example, TV shows and movies often portray low-income individuals as lazy or deserving of their poverty. This reinforces negative attitudes towards low-income individuals and perpetuates stereotypes that can be harmful.
Combatting Classism
Education and awareness
Education and awareness are important in combatting classism. By learning about the experiences of low-income individuals and the effects of classism, we can work to challenge negative attitudes and stereotypes.
Advocacy and activism
Advocacy and activism are also important in combatting classism. This can involve speaking out against discriminatory policies and practices, and advocating for change.
Policy changes and enforcement
Policy changes and enforcement can also be effective in combatting classism. This can involve implementing laws and regulations that protect low-income individuals from discrimination, and enforcing existing laws to ensure that they are being followed.
Support for low-income individuals and families
Support for low-income individuals and families is also important in combatting classism. This can involve providing resources such as job training, affordable housing, and access to education, to help break the cycle of poverty and provide more opportunities for success.
Conclusion
Classism is a serious issue that affects individuals and society as a whole. It can be seen in examples such as workplace discrimination, education system disparities, housing discrimination, and media representation and stereotyping. Combatting classism requires education, awareness, advocacy, policy changes, enforcement, and support for low-income individuals and families. It’s important that we work together to challenge classism and create a more equitable society for all.
Resources:
Langston, D. (2018). Class Matters: Cross-Class Alliance Building for Middle-Class Activists. New Society Publishers.
Lareau, A. (2011). Unequal Childhoods: Class, Race, and Family Life (2nd ed.). University of California Press.
Oliver, M. L., & Shapiro, T. M. (2006). Black Wealth/White Wealth: A New Perspective on Racial Inequality (2nd ed.). Routledge.
Piketty, T. (2014). Capital in the Twenty-First Century. Harvard University Press.
Sayer, A. (2015). Why We Can’t Afford the Rich. Policy Press.
Sen, A. (2000). Social Exclusion: Concept, Application, and Scrutiny. Social Development Papers No. 1. Office of Environment and Social Development, Asian Development Bank.
Skeggs, B. (2004). Class, Self, Culture. Routledge.
CEO compensation surged 14.1% in 2019 to $21.3 million.” Economic Policy Institute. N.p., 18 Aug. 2020.
“Graduation Rates.” National Center for Education Statistics. N.p., n.d.
“The State of Fair Housing in America.” National Fair Housing Alliance. N.p., n.d.
“What is Classism?” Teaching Tolerance. Southern Poverty Law Center, n.d.
“Types of Classism.” Classism.org. Class Action, n.d.
“Intersectionality.” National Conference for Community and Justice. NCCJ, n.d.
Classism
