Bourgeoiss

Bourgeoiss is a term primarily used in sociology and political science to refer to the upper middle class or the capitalist class. Historically, it emerged in France during the late Middle Ages, initially designating the inhabitants of walled towns, or "bourgs." These individuals were often merchants, artisans, or professionals who gained economic and social standing independent of the feudal aristocracy. Over time, the term evolved to encompass those who owned the means of production and profited from the labor of others, a concept central to Marxist theory.

In classical Marxist analysis, the bourgeoisie is contrasted with the proletariat, the working class. The bourgeoisie owns capital, such as factories, land, and machinery, and employs the proletariat to generate wealth. This relationship is seen as inherently exploitative, with the bourgeoisie extracting surplus value from the labor of the workers. The rise of the bourgeoisie is often associated with the transition from feudalism to capitalism and the Industrial Revolution.

In contemporary usage, "bourgeoisie" can sometimes be used more broadly to describe a social class characterized by its adherence to conventional values, material comfort, and a focus on social status and upward mobility. It can also carry connotations of materialism, conservatism, and a perceived lack of artistic or intellectual depth, though these are often subjective interpretations rather than strict definitions. The term remains a significant concept in understanding social stratification and class conflict.