Abstract

In this article, I discuss three contributions that focus on different aspects of class inequalities. I show how in current western societies the concept of «occupational social class» has maintained its validity as predictor of a series of social risks, and that alternative, post-modern, conceptualizations of social class do not have the same explanatory power as the «classical» Weberian concept of occupational social class. Moreover, I contribute original analyses showing how institutionally originated labour market inequalities interact with individuals' social class of origin, shaping individuals' work career opportunities, leading to additional disadvantage for working class descendants, compared to privileged bourgeoisie off-springs. Thus, social class, and the related concept of class conflict, cannot simplistically be dismissed as a relic of the twentieth century.