Changing Social Classes In The United States

The United States of American has a class system that divides people into three layers, the lower class (poor), middle class, and the upper class (rich). Income determines what class people are categorized. There is mobility between the classes. How does that happen? One of the largest factors that contributes to this is education. Changing your social class is possible by gaining a higher education. The United States has a class system that divides people into three different classes based on their income. Each class has layers, for example, lower-middle, average-middle, and upper-middle. The first class is the upper class which consists of people that have the most wealth. Many have their money because of birth rights. Majority of them actually work for their money …show more content…
Furthering training or academic studies through a various of means after high school creates more resources for individuals. The three type of capital are human, physical, and social. Human capital is improved by acquiring skills and abilities through education. These skills and abilities will produce a pathway for a person to better jobs with more substantial pay. Physical capital is the tools and equipment used as a resources. With the extensive training in a higher education, using the physical capital in a professional or field to show expertise will gain trust moving toward higher levels of employment. Social capital relates to social relationships and connections. Gaining social capital through extending an education can open doors to a multitude of people in higher places. These individuals can help expand the social base and move into individuals into other positions that improve status and financial standing. Eshelman and Rottinghaus point out, “capital is perhaps the most prevalent conceptualization…these form of capital have relatively direct implications for well-being”