The world some have won : sexuality, class and inequality

McDermott, Elizabeth (2011) The world some have won : sexuality, class and inequality. Sexualities, 14 (1). pp. 63-78. ISSN 1363-4607

Abstract

This article addresses inequalities and injustices arising at the intersection of class and sexuality. Recent legislation has enshrined sexual diversity within the UK creating the possibility for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people to lead legitimated lives. The experience of living within this new liberal sexual framework is likely to be mediated by social class. Drawing on two empirical studies and utilizing Bourdieu's conceptualization of class, and queer theory, I highlight, using the example of young LGBT people's post-compulsory schooling choices, the importance of focusing upon the interaction between sexual identity and class to understand the unequal ways LGBT people may negotiate the transformations in intimate and sexual life.