Social Structure and Class Consciousness: Facts, Fictions and Fantasies

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Abstract
A major issue in sociological debate concerns the extent to which consciousness embodies a factual rather than ideological character. This theme is echoed by Chamberlain when he concludes that class sentiments in Australia directly reflect individual experiences and social position. The present paper uses multivariate techniques to assess how far this conclusion holds. It shows that although there is some bivariate association between class sentiments and measures of social position, the relationships weaken substantially when statistical controls are introduced. Moreover, other evidence sug gests good reasons why class consciousness may be informed by elements of belief and desire as well as fact. In sum, these results stand contrary to the view that consciousness is deeply embedded in social structure.