Differential Class Behavior in Denmark

Abstract

SOCIAL class is here conceived of as a stratum or layer of society differentiated in terms of scalar social status.' The basic status variable is conceived in terms of differential deference allotted to a person by his fellow group members. The essence of social class is thus what Marshall called the way a man is treated by his fellows. 2 This differential treatment depends upon extent to which a person possesses characteristics strongly desired by his group.3 It is well substantiated that relative importance of any one characteristic may vary from group to group and from situation to situation. In large anonymous society such crude status indicators as occupational prestige, income, wealth, power, etc. may be sufficient for demarcation of major strata. In small, tightly knit group, however, role behavior seems vastly more important than role expectation because in such groups role expectations tend to vary less, thus approaching social norms.4 A more refined analysis where strata become small enough to function as interactive entities presupposes use of behavioral criteria classified in terms of conformity to group norms. While our own investigations as well as previous research amply substantiate status differences in behavior, behavioral norms as well as relationship between behavior and norm by status categories is poorly documented. A national sample survey executed in 1953-54 by senior author had as one of its objectives assessment of class differences with respect to status sensitivity, class identification, social participation, and certain interests, habits, tastes, and other personal characteristics believed to be status linked. To extent that a correlation of these characteristics with social status is demonstrated, barriers for social mobility are indicated. Furthermore, where status differences refer to a transition from minority behavior to majority behavior, normative differences may probably be imputed. For most questions reported here sample consists of 2505 males aged 21 and over. For present analysis respondents were classified into five strata as follows: