RR3-Bourdieu “The Forms of Capital”

Pierre Bourdieu’s “The Forms of capital” provides a thorough analysis and categorization of what constitutes capital, which he defines as “accumulated labor”. His introduction seems to suggest that capital is inextricably tied with the social world, and this becomes increasingly apparent as Bordieu classifies different types of capital. The distribution of capital and its classifications are connected to social structures. To get a clear look at capital and its connection to the social sphere, all types of capital (not just economic, self-interested exchange) need to be taken into account. He categorizes capital into three distinct types: economic capital, cultural capital, and social capital. Economic capital is what usually comes to mind when we think of capital. It is capital that can immediately be transferred to money. Cultural capital can sometimes be converted into economic capital (and vice versa), and it is essentially the cultural objects and values that a person holds. Social capital is all about social relationships and obligations, and can also be converted into economic capital in some circumstances. By the end, it seems that Bourdieu believes the three groups are all derived from and rooted in economic capital, but they require transformation to get there. 

I found the article most interesting when Bourdieu was describing cultural capital, particularly how it plays out in a school setting. He acknowledges the existence of an achievement gap by class. He talks about how academic ability and investment in academics are connected, which means that a good education requires investment (both in time and money). This means that lower socioeconomic groups are not only at a disadvantage when it comes to having economic capital, but they would also be at a disadvantage in attaining cultural and social economic capital. This makes an argument for free college. If you need economic capital in order to gain social and cultural capital, then those without economic capital will always be at a disadvantage in acquiring the other two types of capital. By getting rid of the economic burden for education (which is an institutional form of cultural capital that can also provide the connections necessary to expand social capital), it would help to level the playing field and provide the opportunity for more people to enjoy the benefits of all three forms of capital. Bourdieu explains that cultural capital (and the other types of capital) can be hereditary. In order to gain cultural capital, one would need a family that has the privilege of being able to provide them with the time and financial stability to gain skills. I wonder if knowledge of these three types of capital and how they relate to one another could help combat issues of economic inequality.