Abstract

A theoretical discussion of available research findings yields the conclusion that whereas 'economic' conservatism-progressiveness can be explained by class, 'cultural' conservatism-progressiveness cannot. It is demonstrated why a rejection of the latter part of this thesis implies a neglect of the distinction between the description of political differences between occupational groupings on the one hand and the explanation of political values from class differences on the other. After a discussion of the intellectual origins of the theoretical problems which have been established in this article, research into i) the one- or two-dimensionality of political values, ii) the role of economic interests, and iii) processes of self-selection regarding educational and occupational choice is indicated as an important means to help and solve them.

How to Cite:

Houtman, D., (1997) “Klassepositie, conservatisme en progressiviteit: theoretische problemen rond empirische samenhangen”, Tijdschrift voor Sociologie 18(1-2), 79–102. doi: https://doi.org/10.21825/sociologos.86411