Change in the landscape of milieus in Germany. From hierarchy creating to subject-related patterns of perception

Journal/Book: Z Soz. 1996; 25: Postfach 30 03 66, D-70443 Stuttgart, Germany. Ferdinand Enke Verlag. 190.

Abstract: The starting-point of this article is two models of social structure which are based on specific patterns of distinction and on a theory of social milieus. One model reflects social stratification and the other model, which was introduced by Gerhard Schulze, is composed of ,,Erlebnismilieus'' (experience-milieus). The paper intends to reconstruct the alteration in the mix of the structural principles underlying the models used. The empirical analysis of both models, which covers the last four decades, points toward two contradictory developments. On the one hand, the relevance of hierarchy-creating patterns of distinction diminished. This development can be interpreted as a leveling process in regard to hierarchical structures in the German society. On the other hand, during the period of cultural conflicts distinctions came into prominence which refer to the aesthetics of every-day life. This process has contributed to the formation of the ,,Erlebnismilieu'' model. The formation of these social milieus is connected with the advance of subject-related patterns of perception and indicate an inner-directed kind of modernization. The article ends with conclusions concerning the analysis of social structure.

Note: Article T Mullerschneider, Herzog Max Str 38, D-96047 Bamberg, Germany

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