Revisiting transitional metaphors: reproducing inequalities under the conditions of late modernity

Furlong, A. (2009) Revisiting transitional metaphors: reproducing inequalities under the conditions of late modernity. Journal of Education and Work, 22(5), pp. 343-353. (doi: 10.1080/13639080903453979)

Abstract

This paper focuses on some of the conceptual implications changes in youth transitions over the last 40 years. I argue that changes have often been exaggerated with researchers too enthusiastic to jump on theoretical bandwagons without due regard for empirical evidence. While I suggest that there are important changes that impact on the ways in which social classes are reproduced, involving a perception of increased opportunity and greater scope for individual agency, a degree of class-based convergence and illusions regarding the disappearance of class, I will argue that the new mechanisms lead to the re-establishment of very familiar patterns of socio-economic inequality which can largely be understood by employing established theoretical ideas. While biographical approaches are regarded as useful, the continued use of social class is defended.

• Item Type: Articles (Other)
• Keywords: Biography, social class, youth transitions, transitional metaphors, individualisation
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Furlong, Professor Andy
• Authors: Furlong, A.
• Subjects: H Social Sciences > HM Sociology; L Education > L Education (General)
• College/School: College of Social Sciences > School of Education
• Journal Name: Journal of Education and Work
• Publisher: Taylor and Francis
• ISSN: 1363-9080
• ISSN (Online): 1469-9435
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2009 Taylor and Francis
• First Published: First published in Journal of Education and Work 22(5):343-353
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher