thebourgeois

The term "bourgeois" originated in medieval France, initially referring to inhabitants of walled towns, or *bourgs*. Over time, its meaning evolved, particularly within Marxist theory, to denote the capitalist class. This class, according to Marx, owns the means of production and employs wage laborers. The bourgeoisie are distinct from the proletariat, the working class who sell their labor for wages.

In sociological and cultural contexts, "bourgeois" often describes a social class characterized by its values, tastes, and lifestyle. This can include an emphasis on material possessions, respectability, conventional morality, and a certain degree of affluence. The term can carry connotations of being materialistic, conservative, or lacking in artistic or intellectual sophistication, although these are subjective interpretations.

Historically, the rise of the bourgeoisie is linked to the decline of feudalism and the growth of commerce and industry. They played a significant role in historical events such as the French Revolution, advocating for political and economic reforms that favored their interests. In contemporary usage, the term can be applied to individuals or groups who exhibit traits associated with the middle or upper-middle class, often in contrast to aristocratic or working-class identities. The precise definition and application of the term remain fluid and dependent on the specific context in which it is used.