We study class, hierarchy, inequality & lifestyle.
Social Class
Social class reflects an individual’s position within the broader social hierarchy and is often determined by factors such as wealth, education, occupation, and cultural capital. Class shapes opportunities, behaviors, and perceptions, influencing everything from moral judgment to empathy and interpersonal relationships. People from different social classes may experience the world differently, shaping their attitudes toward cooperation, trust, and social norms. Studying social class allows researchers to uncover how structural advantages or disadvantages impact personal development and social mobility.
Lifestyle
Lifestyle reflects the daily practices, choices, and values that are shaped by social class and hierarchy. It encompasses consumption patterns, leisure activities, social networks, and cultural engagement, serving as both a marker of status and a mechanism through which social identities are expressed. Lifestyle can reinforce social boundaries, but it can also provide avenues for cross-class interaction, empathy, and collaboration. By studying lifestyle, researchers gain insight into how social structures influence human behavior, interpersonal relationships, and societal norms, highlighting the complex interplay between individual choices and social context.
Hierarchy
Hierarchy is a central feature of social life, organizing individuals and groups into structured relationships of power, influence, and status. It shapes who has authority, who makes decisions, and how resources are allocated. Hierarchies exist in virtually all human societies, from small communities to large organizations, and they guide everyday social interactions. Understanding hierarchy helps explain patterns of cooperation, competition, and leadership, as well as how people perceive and respond to social rank in their personal and professional lives.
Inequality
Inequality refers to the uneven distribution of resources, opportunities, and privileges across society. It can magnify differences in social influence and access to basic needs, affecting both individual well-being and collective social outcomes. Inequality can also shape people’s perceptions of fairness, trust, and group cohesion, often influencing attitudes toward policy, redistribution, and social justice. By examining economic inequality, researchers explore the psychological consequences of privilege, scarcity, and relative disadvantage, as well as strategies to promote fairness and cooperation.