Comment:
Interesting that there is a resurgence of discussions of “class” which has been taboo (except as an accusation by business elite) for so many years.
I’m afraid that it is a little premature. There are many difficulties standing in the way of a “class-wide” solidarity for labor and the left, and a number of issues that are still being ducked.
I’m thinking particularly of the relationship between: 1) the low-wage economy and the mid-wage economy; 2) immigrants and native-born; 3) employed and un-employed; 4) North/South U.S.; 5) U.S. and the world.
The “truest” mention of class that I’ve heard recently is in the notion of an “underclass.” As diluted as this may seem to some, I believe that it is an opening to a conversation that needs to happen.
What does an “underclass” mean? Most importantly, it goes straight to the heart of the employed/unemployed, low-wage/mid-wage, immigrant/native-born discussion.
Which is the underclass- someone who cannot find employment, or someone who is working in “sub-human” conditions?
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