[lostech]

Here's the Amazon http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/de ... 3?v=glance

Has anyone else read this? It's an amusing look at the way status works in America, written in the 80's. I found it funny and eye-opening, and useful as far as it reminds me of any pointless, vestigial class anxiety I retain. (helps I was raised without television)

It's especially funny how closely the likes, dislikes, and behaviors of 'status seekers' or 'social climbers' that you may know yourself, can be predicated using this book.

[dbarberic]

Yes. I read that book twice over the last five years.

My undergrad and masters degrees were in business, but I went on a kick for a few years were I was completely fascinated by sociology, particularly focused on behaviors and issues around class.

For humor, I’d also recommend “The Official Preppy Handbook”, if you can find a used copy.

I’d also recommend “Blue Collar Roots, While Collar Dreams”, especially if you grew up in a Blue Collar home enviorment.

You should also check out the PBS website: People Like Us
http://www.pbs.org/peoplelikeus/

If the show airs again, I’d highly recommend watching it. Although the documentary is several years old and I’m not sure if PBS will ever air it again. It discusses class levels are really similar to tribes, each with their own traditions, rights of passage, and other “markers”. Even though in America you can move from one class (tribe) to another, you are always most comfortable with the tribe you were raised in as a child and you will always gravitate towards people who exhibit those tribe behaviors and characteristics no matter your income or educational level.

The website has a free transcript of the show if you want to read it.