petite bourgeoisie
The term "petite bourgeoisie" originates from French and refers to a social class that occupies a niche between the working class and the larger bourgeoisie, often characterized by ownership of small businesses or modest means of production.
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Definition
C1Sociology
(historical, academic)The lower middle class, typically including small business owners, shopkeepers, and artisans.
Example
- In the 19th century, the petite bourgeoisie played a crucial role in urban economies.
C2Marxism
(technical, academic)A class of small-scale capitalists who own and operate their own businesses, distinct from both the proletariat and the larger bourgeoisie.
Example
- Marxist theory often discusses the petite bourgeoisie as a group with conflicting class interests.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "petite bourgeoisie":
petit bourgeoismiddle classupper middle classprofessional class