Upper class
The upper class is the socioeconomic group at the top of a society’s hierarchy, distinguished by concentrated wealth, social status, and influence.
Social class: A system of social ranking shaped by economic resources, status, and power. The upper class occupies the highest position within this broader system.
Inheritance: The transfer of property, money, or other assets after a person's death. Inherited assets can preserve family wealth and upper-class standing across generations.
Middle class: A broad social group positioned between working-class and upper-class groups, with varied economic resources and occupations. Its members generally have less concentrated wealth and influence than the upper class.
Economic inequality: The uneven distribution of income, wealth, or economic resources among people or groups. Concentrated upper-class wealth is one source and visible measure of economic inequality.
Social stratification: The structured division of society into ranked groups with unequal resources and opportunities. It describes the hierarchy that places an upper class above other groups.
Intergenerational wealth: Assets transferred or accumulated across generations within families. It explains how advantages endure even when individual earnings change.
Working class: A social group whose members primarily rely on wages from manual, service, or other labor. Reliance on wages contrasts with the upper class’s greater ownership of assets and institutions.
Political influence: The capacity to shape public decisions, political agendas, or government actions. Wealth and elite networks can increase access to decision-makers and political campaigns.
Wealth: The total value of assets owned by a person or household, minus liabilities. Inherited and accumulated assets often distinguish upper-class households from high-income households.
Social capital: Resources accessible through relationships, networks, and group membership. Exclusive networks can provide upper-class families with access to opportunities and influence.