Blue-Collar Working Class in the US
Purpose
Ladies and gentlemen, now it's time to "Think Like an Anthropologist," applying what you've learned to the "real world." Everywhere we turn, we hear about the "working class." Let's try to describe and define who the people are who inhabit this space.
Instructions
Document & Describe: Take pictures of a few public things in your area that you associate with the "working class." (You can search the web if need be). What kinds of cultural practices and material cultural objects do you associate with the American blue-collar "Working Class"? Both visually and verbally, describe:
How in general would you describe and characterize the blue-collar working class in the US?
What kind of house or dwelling do they live in? (photo). Where do they live?
What kinds of jobs do they have?
What--and where--do they eat? (photo)
What kind of car do they drive? (photo)
What kinds of hobbies or leisure activities do they have?
What other kinds of cultural values do you think blue-collar workers might have?
What are their cultural practices or material culture objects do you think they engage with? (this is wide open, provide at least one photo).
What kinds of ideas or pre-conceptions have you been raised to have about blue-collar workers and the working class?
At least 600 Words and insert your images into a word document. If you’re not sure how to respond, use ethnography—ask people. Remember, I am here to help you! Please ask.
REMEMBER: You are an "anthropologist from another world." You are trying to describe cultural phenomena related to what Americans call the "Working Class." Don't exoticize or objectify "those people;" that is, keep relativism and ethnocentrism in mind.
Grading
I’ll use the following criteria to evaluate your responses:
Completeness: Address each of the above questions clearly, thoughtful, and insightfully in your description, explanations, images, and reflection.
Anthropological Perspectives: Exhibits awareness and understanding of ethnocentrism, cultural relativity, contexts, and power in all activities.
Course Concepts: Directly and appropriately utilizes course terminology in all writing and activities. Cites course materials where appropriate.
Uses appropriate examples to support your arguments.
Writing, Style, Organization, Clarity: Writing is always important.
I will post the grading rubric as the source. I think taking the online pictures to describe in each problems is fine.
Instructor’s Name
Course Section
Date
Title
Blue-Collar Working Class
The blue-collar working class in the US typically refers to individuals who work in manual labor jobs, such as construction, manufacturing, or transportation. These jobs often require physical strength and specialized skills and may involve working long hours in demanding conditions. The blue-collar, working-class members often have lower education and income levels than white-collar workers and may face financial challenges and job insecurity. Many blue-collar workers live in working-class neighborhoods and may rely on public transportation or their vehicles to commute to work. They play an essential role in the US economy and society, providing essential services and supporting industries that rely on manual labor. Thus, it is vital to recognize the diversity within the blue-collar working class, as different industries and regions may have unique cultures, traditions, and challenges. Additionally, it is essential to avoid stereotyping or oversimplifying their experiences.
Housing
1581150-9017000
Fig. 1. Rob Bennett, 70th Avenue near Fresh Pond Road in Ridgewood, Queens, is lined with bay-front row houses that may become landmarks, 2009.
The housing and living situations of blue-collar workers in the US can vary greatly depending on location, industry, and income level. Some blue-collar workers may have their own homes, while others may have apartments or live in company-provided housing. In many cases, blue-collar workers live in working-class neighborhoods or suburbs, which may be close to their workplacz.es neighborhoods may be characterized by affordable housing, access to public transportation, and community amenities such as parks or community centers. Meanwhile, in some areas, blue-collar workers may also live in rural or semi-rural areas, mainly if their work involves agriculture or natural resource extraction. These workers may live in small towns or on farms or ranches.
Jobs
Blue-collar workers in the US typically work in jobs that require manual labor or specialized skills. Some common industries that employ blue-collar workers include construction, manufacturing, transportation, agriculture and farming, or natural resource extraction. Other blue-collar jobs may include plumbing, electrical work, welding, and machinery operation.
Meals
Fig. 2. Wellness Workdays, Worksite Wellness Conference to Address Barriers to Well-being in Blue Collar Workers, 2020.
It is not uncommon for blue-collar workers to opt for convenient and affordable food options due to busy work schedules and limited financial resources. For instance, some blue-collar workers may bring their own homemade meals to work, while others may rely on fast food or convenience store items for lunch. In some industries, companies may offer cafeteria-style meals or food trucks for their employees. It is also possible that blue-collar workers may enjoy eating at local diners or small restaurants near their workpla...