On Class

Deborah Dundas' book "On Class" is a 2023 Hamilton Review of Books Best Book of the Year. It explores the ways in which we talk about class, who tells the stories, and why this has to change. Dundas grew up poor and felt anxious about her place, but was reluctant to broach the subject of class. The book asks what we don't talk about when we don't talk about class and what might happen if we did.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 18 January 2024
Publisher: Biblioasis

Deborah Dundas is a journalist who grew up in poverty and nearly missed out on attending university. In her book, "On Class," she discusses the consequences of ignoring poverty and class with writers, activists, those who work with the poor, and those who are poor themselves. Dundas understands firsthand the struggles of growing up with limited resources and the weight of societal expectations that often come with being from a lower- or working-class background. Despite overcoming many obstacles, she still felt uncertain about her place and hesitated to bring up the topic of class in safe spaces.

While new social movements have brought attention to issues of gender and racism, discussions of class often overlook the voices of those who are most affected: the working class and poor. "On Class" is a thought-provoking exploration of how we talk about class, who tells the stories, and who is left out. It raises important questions about the narratives that dominate our society and the potential consequences of changing our approach to discussing class.

One of the key themes of the book is the power of storytelling. Dundas argues that the stories we tell about class shape our understanding of the issue and influence public opinion. She highlights the ways in which dominant narratives perpetuate stereotypes and reinforce social inequalities. For example, stories that portray the working class as lazy or unintelligent can contribute to negative perceptions and discrimination against this group.

On the other hand, Dundas also emphasizes the importance of listening to the voices of those who are directly affected by poverty and class. She interviews individuals from different backgrounds and walks of life, including low-wage workers, homeless people, and students from marginalized communities. These stories provide a humanizing perspective on the issue and challenge the stereotypes and assumptions that often accompany discussions of class.

Another important aspect of "On Class" is the role of education in addressing social inequalities. Dundas argues that education is a powerful tool for promoting social mobility and breaking down barriers to opportunity. She highlights the ways in which education can help individuals develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the workplace and achieve economic stability.

However, Dundas also acknowledges the challenges that students from marginalized communities face in accessing high-quality education. She discusses the systemic barriers that prevent students from low-income backgrounds from succeeding, such as lack of funding, inadequate resources, and discrimination. Dundas calls for policies that prioritize education and support students from all backgrounds, including those from low-income families.

In conclusion, "On Class" is a powerful and thought-provoking book that sheds light on the consequences of ignoring poverty and class. Deborah Dundas' exploration of the ways in which we talk about class and the stories we tell about it is essential for understanding the social and economic inequalities that exist in our society. By listening to the voices of those who are directly affected by poverty and class and challenging dominant narratives, we can work towards a more just and equitable world.

Weight: 138g
Dimension: 115 x 199 x 9 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781771964814