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The upper class in America is often referred to as those who are in the top economic level of society. Individuals in this class are usually described as having great power and wealth and often called “rich”. These may include individuals with great power in politics or in the economic sector.
Some individuals who are considered a part of the upper class include Company bosses, fortune heirs, politicians, stars, and business executives. This class is considered to encompass just 1 percent of the population and usually derive the mast majority of their incomes from capital gains and investments.
Although there has been much research and books written on the topic of social class in America many feel that there are no clear distinctions. Some scholars on the subject of social class feel that the degree of fragmentation in the areas of economic and sociological standing makes class division very disputable and subjective. Others are in disagreement with the fact that we live in a well-mixed society.
The debate on social class brings up the subject of wealth, social status, culture and education. There is no formula to determine which of these variables makes one a part of the upper class, however, wealth and income statistics are usually a factor because they can be measured more objectively. Individuals who are thought to be in the upper class often do not have to work due to the inherited privilege. This usually means status is passed on through the generations whereby individuals do not have to re-certify their class status.
