Oberklassen
Oberklassen refers to the uppermost segment of society in German-language discourse. The term denotes a social stratum characterized by substantial economic resources, high educational attainment, prestigious occupations, and considerable political or cultural influence. In sociological usage, the Oberklassen often overlaps with what is called the Oberschicht or the elite, yet the exact boundaries vary across contexts. The group typically includes large-scale entrepreneurs, top executives, high-earning professionals, and individuals with inherited wealth or seats on influential boards, as well as members of historically privileged aristocratic lineages. Their lifestyle and networks—exclusive social circles, membership in elite institutions, influence in politics and culture—reinforce their status.
There is no single universal criterion for membership. Researchers may use a combination of factors such as
Overall, the Oberklassen describe the top tier of the resource distribution, with outsized political, economic, and