Date: Tue, 24 Nov 1998 17:54:35 -0600 (CST)
From: Lori Holyfield <lholyfie-AT-comp.uark.edu>
Subject: Re: symbolic captal vs. cultural capital


RE:cultural and symbolic capital

Yes, and I would just add that cultural capital contributes to  "a feel
for the game," (i.e., habitus)  that practical sense that inclines one to
react in a way that may not be calculated and may not simply be a question
of conscious obedience to the rules. Thus, drawing upon one's cultural or
symbolic capital, be that linguistic competence, an appreciation for the
"code," or one's accumulated cultural competency, the power is embedded in
the notion that the process is internalized and the dispositions are
reflected via a lifetime of learning, socialization, oppression and/or
privilege and legitimation.    

On Tue, 24 Nov 1998 BoPaulle-AT-aol.com wrote:

> In a message dated 11/24/98 2:39:28 PM Eastern Standard Time, Chetro-AT-aol.com
> writes:
> 
> << bourdieu-AT-lists.village.virginia.edu >>
> 
> I agree with the others in their responses.  I do think however that cultural
> capital deserves a bit more explanation.  It is indeed rooted in academic
> training and family-environment socialization, but it is more than that.  It
> is the ability to speak the legitimized language, it is that which often gives
> its holders confidence in addition to really valuable skills.  It is that
> which, aside from money and social conections, which gives social mobility.
> We must understand Bourdieu's concepts in terms of his being obesessed (at
> least someone is) with inequality (mostly class based) and the convenient myth
> of meritocracy which is internalized by both oppressor and oppressed.  And in
> general, of course, cultural capital, like taste in Distinction, is developed
> "an arms distance from necessity."  That is to say the forms of capital are
> transferable.
> 	Symbolic capital ties in, again, with economic capital in a similar way
> ("homology").  In general, it is those with the $ who have the power to
> validate, to bestow meaning, symbolic power.  there is clearly mucn more to be
> said once this can of worms has beenopened. 
> 
> best wishes to all from NYC!
> 
> b. paulle
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