Bourdieu and Social Space: Mobilities, Trajectories, Emplacements

Bourdieus concept of social space addresses structured inequalities in spatial choices and practices, offering new directions in studies of mobility, immobility, and emplacement. This book traces the links between habitus and social space and places his work in dialogue with historical and contemporary approaches to mobility.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 170 pages
Publication date: 11 November 2022
Publisher: Berghahn Books

French sociologist and anthropologist Pierre Bourdieu's significance for the study of spatiality and mobility has garnered less attention than other facets of his work. Here, Deborah Reed-Danahay contends that the concept of social space, central to Bourdieu's ideas, addresses the structured inequalities that pervade spatial choices and practices. She offers an ethnographically informed interpretation of social space that showcases its potential for new avenues in the study of mobility, immobility, and emplacement. This book explores the connections between habitus and social space throughout Bourdieu's writings and engages his work in dialogue with historical and contemporary perspectives on mobility.

Bourdieu's concept of social space is crucial for understanding the complexities of spatiality and mobility. It encompasses the physical, social, and cultural dimensions of places and the relationships between individuals and their environments. Social space is shaped by various factors, including economic inequality, power dynamics, and cultural norms, which influence individuals' access to resources, opportunities, and social capital.

One of the key insights of Bourdieu's social space is the notion of habitus. Habitus refers to the accumulated cultural and social practices that individuals develop over time, which shape their perceptions, behaviors, and attitudes toward the world. Habitus is not a fixed entity but rather a dynamic process that is shaped by social interactions and experiences. It influences individuals' spatial choices and practices, as well as their ability to navigate and adapt to different environments.

For example, individuals from different social classes may have different habitus, which shape their access to resources and opportunities. Wealthy individuals may have more resources and social capital, which allows them to live in more desirable neighborhoods and access better schools and healthcare. In contrast, individuals from lower social classes may have limited access to resources and may be forced to live in more disadvantaged neighborhoods with limited opportunities.

Bourdieu's concept of social space also highlights the importance of power and inequality in shaping spatial choices and practices. Power is not just a physical force but also a social and cultural construct that shapes individuals' access to resources and opportunities. Individuals with more power may have greater control over their environments and can shape the spatial arrangements and practices that prevail in their communities.

For example, urban planners and developers may have more power than individuals living in marginalized communities, which can lead to the displacement of these communities and the creation of new spaces that are exclusive to wealthier individuals. Similarly, dominant cultural norms and practices may reinforce social inequalities and limit individuals' access to resources and opportunities.

In conclusion, Pierre Bourdieu's concept of social space is a valuable tool for understanding the complexities of spatiality and mobility. It addresses the structured inequalities that pervade spatial choices and practices and highlights the role of habitus, power, and inequality in shaping spatial arrangements and practices. By exploring the connections between habitus and social space, we can gain a deeper understanding of the factors that influence individuals' mobility and emplacement and develop new strategies for promoting social justice and equity in our communities.

Weight: 262g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800736412