Life Chances and Social Inequality in the Neoliberal Era

Do you want to understand why economic opportunity seems unequally distributed despite widespread market growth? Modern societies are structured by complex classification systems that determine who gets access to resources and mobility. This course provides a foundational understanding of social stratification, the concept of life chances, and how the dominant economic ideology—neoliberalism—impacts access to housing, education, and employment for different social groups. You will learn to critically analyze current social policies through a sociological lens. What you'll learn: * Understand the foundational sociological concepts of life chances, social stratification, and status groups. * Analyze the core tenets of neoliberalism and its historical impact on public goods and the welfare state. * Evaluate how market deregulation and financialization affect housing stability and wealth accumulation. * Practice interpreting contemporary data on social mobility, income concentration, and educational attainment gaps. * Examine the emerging role of algorithmic classification and digital technology in shaping modern opportunities and access. * Apply theoretical frameworks to contemporary case studies involving labor markets and urban development. We begin by defining key sociological and economic terms, establishing the historical context of neoliberalism, and then moving into detailed analyses of specific institutions (labor markets, housing, education) and how they perpetuate or disrupt existing social hierarchies. This course is designed for beginners interested in sociology, political science, urban studies, or economic policy. No prior knowledge of economic theory or sociological concepts is required. Start reading today to gain a critical perspective on modern social structure.