۱٫ Introduction

۲٫ Moral space

۳٫ Toward an analysis

۴٫ Analysis

۵٫ Conclusion

Appendix A. Supplementary data

References

Abstract

As social beings, we are compelled to take moral position toward one another but the nature of the relationship between morality and social structure remains a point of discussion. This article proposes a relational perspective on the debate, which involves reconceptualizing moral views as simultaneously status markers and attempts to achieve self-worth. In order to do so, the argument borrows from Bourdieu a depiction of the class structure as a multidimensional space and follows Douglas’s understanding of culture and worldviews. The argument is supported by an analysis of an experimental survey design, relying on vignette questions to gauge moral worldviews. The data are processed using Multiple Correspondence Analysis, revealing that (1) people exhibit a consistency in their moral position-taking and that (2) a strong homology exists between the moral space and the space of social classes.

Introduction

Moral concern is intrinsic to people’s relation to the world as continuously evaluating our surroundings, positions and experiences is an integral part of the human condition. Our lives do not consist merely of a relentless pursuit of physical safety or power over others. But, as social beings, we are also involved in an endless quest for moral recognition or self-worth (De Keere, 2018b; Honneth, 1996; Lamont, 2017; Sayer, 2011). Therefore, the role of morality has always been a vital element within the study of social cohesion and conflict, albeit in different disguises, leading to different research avenues. Durkheim’s (1934) classical take on morality, as the cultural cement that holds communities together, was later picked up by Parsons (1967), who conceptualized moral values as shared guiding principles that shape common goals and expectations. However, another strand of sociologists was more inspired by Weberian or Marxist accounts of morality, emphasizing not only its cohesive power but simultaneously seeing it as a driving force behind status and power conflicts. Yet, during the latter half of the 20th century, the topic of morality fell into sociological disgrace as it “went down with the functionalist ship” (Hitlin & Vaisey, 2013:53). But, the sharp increase in inequality, accompanied by a steady rise of radical politics in Europe and the US, have catapulted the importance of moral worth back into the scientific spotlight.