Elites: Some questions for a new research agenda

TY - CHAP

T1 - Elites: Some questions for a new research agenda

AU - Maxwell, Claire

PY - 2015/1/1

Y1 - 2015/1/1

N2 - This chapter offers an introduction to the field of elite studies, identifying questions that this academic field still needs to grapple with. While interest in the elites has experienced a resurgence, much theoretical and empirical work is still needed. One of the first questions must be how we define elites, which in turn will inform attempts to gain a greater understanding of what shapes the formation and maintenance of these groups across local, national and global spaces. The second key area requiring further research and theorisation is whether and how the concept of elites can be integrated into our more developed understandings about social class structures and practices. Drawing on key writings in the field of elite studies, the chapter sets out in more detail the kinds of questions already engaged with by colleagues and the focus future enquiries should take. The chapter concludes with some questions scholars working on elite education should consider further.

AB - This chapter offers an introduction to the field of elite studies, identifying questions that this academic field still needs to grapple with. While interest in the elites has experienced a resurgence, much theoretical and empirical work is still needed. One of the first questions must be how we define elites, which in turn will inform attempts to gain a greater understanding of what shapes the formation and maintenance of these groups across local, national and global spaces. The second key area requiring further research and theorisation is whether and how the concept of elites can be integrated into our more developed understandings about social class structures and practices. Drawing on key writings in the field of elite studies, the chapter sets out in more detail the kinds of questions already engaged with by colleagues and the focus future enquiries should take. The chapter concludes with some questions scholars working on elite education should consider further.

M3 - Book chapter

SP - 15

EP - 28

BT - Elites, privilege and excellence: The national and global redefinition of educational advantage

PB - Routledge

ER -