High school Quote by Charles Murray
“When I'm talking about the white working class, here's what I'm defining: high school degree, no more, and working in a blue-collar job or a low-skilled service job. When I'm talking about the white, upper-middle class, I'm talking about people who work in the professions or managerial jobs and have at least a college degree.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Coming Apart, The State of White America, 2012
Defines two socioeconomic groups within white America by education and job type, contrasting blue‑collar with professional classes.
In simple terms: Distinguishes white working vs. upper‑middle class by schooling and occupation.
Key Takeaway
Recognize class differences when discussing policy.
Themes
socioeconomics
education
class
identity
Mood
analytical
critical
informative
Type
sociological
political
When to use this quote
- policy analysis
- political debate
- media commentary
- public discourse
Key Concepts
stratification
mobility
labor market
Questions to Reflect On
- How do these definitions affect political attitudes?
- What are the implications for social mobility?
A Different Perspective
Class categories can oversimplify diverse experiences.
