CULTURAL CAPITAL Meaning and
Definition
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Cultural capital is a sociological concept that refers to the knowledge, skills, education, and cultural assets that a person possesses. It encompasses the cultural norms, behaviors, tastes, and preferences that are considered valuable in a particular society. Coined by French sociologist Pierre Bourdieu, cultural capital can be seen as a form of non-financial social capital that shapes an individual's social mobility, status, and overall social position.
Cultural capital can be divided into three main forms: embodied, objectified, and institutionalized cultural capital. Embodied cultural capital refers to the knowledge, skills, and cultural competencies that are internalized by an individual through socialization and education. Objectified cultural capital comprises physical assets, such as books, artworks, or musical instruments, that hold cultural significance. Institutionalized cultural capital represents the formal recognition and institutional validation of an individual's cultural capital, often through educational qualifications and credentials.
The possession of cultural capital can be advantageous in social interactions, as it enables individuals to navigate social spaces, build social networks, and gain social recognition. It facilitates the acquisition of other forms of capital, such as economic or social capital. However, cultural capital can also contribute to social inequalities by reproducing existing hierarchies and favoring those who possess dominant cultural traits or resources.
In summary, cultural capital refers to the cultural knowledge, skills, and assets that individuals possess, influencing their social position and opportunities for upward mobility in a given society.
Etymology of CULTURAL CAPITAL
The term "cultural capital" was popularized by the French sociologist Pierre Bourdieu in his book "La Distinction" published in 1979. However, Bourdieu did not actually coin the phrase. The concept has roots in the field of sociology and emerged from a broader discussion on social and cultural theory.
The word "capital" in this context is borrowed from economic theory, where it traditionally refers to resources and assets that can be accumulated to generate wealth. Bourdieu adapted this term to describe a different type of resource that individuals possess within a society – cultural capital.
The term "cultural" refers to the various forms of knowledge, education, skills, and norms that a person acquires through socialization and education. Cultural capital can include language proficiency, educational attainment, social etiquette, artistic taste, knowledge of literature and history, and more.
