CLASS IN SOWETO

306 pp., paperback, Pietermaritzburg, 2013

A study of social class structure and identity in Soweto, South Africa's biggest black township.

"An exemplary study of social class and its ramifications for the lives of people, this book is an all-too-rare example of sociological research that systematically weaves together quantitative and qualitative data with both macro- and micro-analysis. The result is a complex, multidimensional understanding of how class works. It should be read not only by people specifically interested in the dynamics and dilemmas of contemporary South Africa, but by anyone interested in the problem of class in contemporary South Africa." Erik Olin Wright, Vilas Distinguished Professor of Sociology, University of Wisconsin-Madison

"This research is of a scale, ambition and rigour unusual in South African sociology. The team provides a conceptually innovative analysis of class in Soweto to argue that township residents have multiclass identities, that subjective conceptions of class are shaped by indigenous languages, and that the working class and poor together constitute an internally differentiated proletariat. It is an impressive work that sets a benchmark for further research, nuanced analysis and vigorous debate, not only for South African social science but also for global debates." Karl von Holdt, Director, Society, Work and Developkment Institute, University of the Witwatersrand

Peter Alexander in Professor of Sociology at the University of Johannesburg.
Doctoral students Claire Ceruti, Mosa Phadi and Kim Wale and research manager Keke Motseke were employed by the University of Johannesburg as researchers.