Summary
1. In reading 4.1 the discussion around, social class focuses on how individuals perceive their social class status. The authors delve into various factors such as income, education, occupation, and subjective perceptions of class to understand how Americans categorize themselves within the social hierarchy. On the other hand, reading 4.2 examines social class through the lens of spatial inequality within New York City's subway system. Buchanan explores how subway stations serve as a physical representation of socioeconomic disparities, with affluent neighborhoods having well-maintained stations compared to those in lower-income areas. While both readings address the concept of social class, they differ in their approach and focus. Bird and Newport's article emphasizes individual perceptions and determinants of social class, while Buchanan's piece highlights spatial and structural inequalities within a specific urban environment.
2. Based on the concepts discussed in reading 4.1 the social class that lives in the Williamsburg neighborhood around the J train Marcy stop would be influenced by factors such as income, education, occupation, and subjective perceptions of class. Williamsburg has undergone significant gentrification in recent years, attracting a mix of residents from various socioeconomic backgrounds. Historically, Williamsburg was a working-class and predominantly immigrant neighborhood, but it has experienced rapid demographic changes with the influx of young professionals and artists. Currently, Williamsburg is known for its diverse population, including working-class residents, artists, professionals, and affluent newcomers. The area features a mix of low-income housing projects, trendy boutiques, upscale apartments, and hipster cafes. Given Williamsburg's diversity and mixed socioeconomic composition, it's challenging to pinpoint a single social class that predominates around the J train Marcy stop. Williamsburg encompasses individuals from various social classes, including working-class residents, middle-class families, and more affluent newcomers. I am not surprised by the results because Williamsburg is very diverse and there are so many different communities within blocks of each other. I do feel like it’s an accurate representation of my neighborhood because you see all kinds of people from different walks of life.
3. Based on reading 4.2 a general pattern about social classes in New York City can be discerned. The article highlights the stark spatial inequalities that exist within the city's subway system, with certain subway stations serving predominantly affluent neighborhoods while others serve lower-income areas. This pattern suggests that social class in New York City is closely tied to geography and spatial distribution. Affluent neighborhoods tend to have better-maintained subway stations and infrastructure, reflecting the higher socioeconomic status of their residents. Conversely, stations serving lower-income neighborhoods may be more dilapidated and lack necessary amenities, indicating the challenges faced by residents in those areas.
