International Perspectives on Theorizing Aspirations: Applying Bourdieu's Tools

Review

“An excellent collection of papers that not only problematises the notion of aspiration but also shows how, by drawing on the tools of Bourdieu, it is possible to develop a more nuanced understanding of its construction and usage. This book is a must read for those interested in the ideas of Bourdieu.” ―Alan France, Professor of Sociology, University of Auckland, New Zealand

Product Description

International Perspectives on Theorizing Aspirations offers new insights and guidance for those looking to use Bourdieu's tools in an educational context, with a focus on how the tools can be applied to issues of aspiration. Written by contributors from the UK, USA, Australia, Nigeria, Jamaica and Spain, the book explores how Bourdieu's tools have been applied in recent cutting-edge educational research on a range of topics, including widening participation, migration, ethnicity, and class. The contributors consider how aspirations are theorized in sociology, as well as exploring the structure/agency debates, before recapitulating Bourdieu's tools and their applicability in educational contexts. A key question running through the chapters is: how does social theory shape research?

Including recommended readings, this is essential reading for anyone looking to use Bourdieu in their research and for those studying aspiration in an educational research setting.

About the Author

Garth Stahl is Senior Lecturer at the School of Education at the University of South Australia and Research Fellow, Australian Research Council (DECRA).

Mark Murphy is Reader in Education and Public Policy at the University of Glasgow, UK.

Derron Wallace is Assistant Professor of Sociology and Education at Brandeis University, USA.

Ciaran Burke is Associate Professor of Higher Education at the University of Derby, UK.

Steven Threadgold is Senior Lecturer in Sociology at the University of Newcastle, Australia.