06/10/2024
Is the elite changing? The answer is no and yes. They still rule. What is changing is how they present themselves. They want to be seen as ordinary. It shows in their cultural taste, for example. Popular culture over highbrow. Born to Rule is a very interesting read with an impressive method from two British sociologists.
And yes, I find it fascinating with studies of the elite. Perhaps because I work at an elite institution. And this particular study also touches upon my own old research around cultural taste and representation.
My interest is also personal. Last week I presented my own life story in a non-academic setting and some people got very upset by my privileges. I have not encountered such a rage towards my own elite position and towards academia before. Not in Sweden.
A uniquely data-rich analysis of the British elite from the Victorian era to today: who gets in, how they get there, what they like and look like, where they go to school, and what politics they perpetuate.Think of the British elite and familiar caricatures spring to mind. But are today’s power br...
