Bourdieu, Pierre (1930–2002)

Abstract

One of the most important thinkers of the second half of the twentieth century, French sociologist Pierre Bourdieu (1930–2002) developed a theory of social domination and reproduction based on the concepts of ‘habitus’, ‘capital’ (economic, cultural, social), ‘field’, and ‘symbolic violence’. This theoretical framework is rooted in extensive empirical research in the sociologies of education, culture, work, and social stratification. He also dealt with gender, political sociology, and economic sociology. Following the evolution of his thought and career, the article presents his theory of practice, social classes, field, and symbolic violence, ending with his engagement as a public intellectual.