Class Counts
Comparative Studies in Class Analysis

"In this important and innovative study, Erik Olin Wright presents a challenging theoretical and empirical cross-national analysis of class relations and class consciousness. In a systematic and rigorous fashion, Wright explores the social dynamics of class position, class formation, class mobility, and class consciousness and relates them to the world of work, gender relations, race, family and friendship patterns. This study will be a key reference point in future discussion of competing approaches to class analysis and the place of class in contemporary societies." Professor Bob Jessop, Lancaster University

"In recent years it has become fashionable to question the usefulness of class analysis. Class Counts is Erik Wright's clear and convincing answer to the skeptics. Wright shows how class analysis makes sense of the inequalities that divide postindustrial society." Professor Michael Hout, University of California, Berkeley

"By any standard, this book represents a considerable achievement. There can be no doubt that it will become a standard text for researchers and teachers alike." Ira Katznelson, Contemporary Sociology

"A review cannot do justice to the depth and variety of material covered....Class Counts demonstrates once again that Wright is a versatile and imaginative analyst of data. One learns a lot about making sensible research decisions by reading the methodological appendices attached to twelve of the chapters in this book. Wright also shows impressive intellectual honesty." Tom Mayer, American Political Science Review