2024-10-31 10:13:00
A recent study precisely establishes the income levels of each social class.
This is the obsession of the moment, at a time when there is talk of tax increases: to protect the poor, not impact the middle class and touch the wallets of the richest. A triptych in continuous development but abstract to say the least. Because honestly, how do you determine if you’re poor, average, or somewhat wealthy? It’s not just income that matters, the composition of the family unit also matters. Having or not having children does not allow for the same financial freedom. Nor is being in a relationship or being single.
A recent study precisely establishes social categories based on income and family members. Established by the Inequalities Observatoryit highlights a classification that offers a more precise vision of social categories. And thus allows the French to position themselves according to the composition of their family unit.
© Inequality Observatory
The figures were established starting from the data collected by INSEE for the year 2022. They take into account the salary, obviously, but also social benefits and are calculated net of the payment of income tax. This allowed the organization to calculate the income necessary to belong to these classes, depending on the type of family unit.
For example, a single person is considered poor if his or her income is less than 1,014 euros per month. Up to 1,608 euros it belongs to the working class, between 1,608 and 2,941 euros to the middle class. She is described as rich above 2941 euros and rich above 4055 euros per month.
For a couple without children the poverty threshold is 1,521 euros per month. These couples belong to the middle class if they have from 2,413 to 4,411 euros, and to the wealthy class if their income is higher than 4,411 euros. They are rich above 5,600 euros.
A couple with two children over 14 years of age is classified as poor if their income is less than 2,534 euros per month, among the middle class between 4,201 and 7,352 euros and as rich above 10,138 euros.
For the Inequality Observatory, the poverty threshold corresponds to half the median income, i.e. that income below which 50% of the population is found and above which the other half is placed. Popular categories include all people whose income is less than 30%. The middle classes are then found at the top, immediately before the wealthy classes. These correspond to the richest 20%. The wealth threshold is set at double the average income.
#income #needed #part #working #middle #wealthy #classes
Interview between Time.news Editor and Social Inequality Expert
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome to this special edition of our interview series. Today, we have a distinguished expert in social class and inequality, Dr. Clara Moreau. Dr. Moreau, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Clara Moreau (CM): Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss the recent study on income and social classes.
TNE: Absolutely! Let’s dive right in. A recent study by the Inequalities Observatory provides an intriguing classification of social categories based on income and family composition. Can you give us a brief overview of the key findings?
CM: Certainly! The study highlights that determining whether someone is poor, middle class, or wealthy isn’t solely reliant on income. It also considers family structure, including whether someone has children, is in a relationship, or is single. This nuanced approach helps us better understand social dynamics in France.
TNE: That’s fascinating. It seems like understanding one’s social standing is more complex than many people realize. Why is this distinction between family composition and income level so important?
CM: Great question! Family composition significantly influences financial stability and social mobility. For instance, a single person may have a different experience of financial independence compared to a couple with children. By recognizing these factors, policymakers can create targeted social programs that more effectively support different groups.
TNE: So, this classification might help inform future policies, especially in light of ongoing discussions about tax increases aimed at protecting lower-income households. How do you think this information can influence public opinion and policy making?
CM: It serves as a crucial tool in the public discourse. When we categorize people based on both income and family structure, it allows for a more personalized understanding of economic struggles. Policymakers can then focus on solutions that truly reflect the realities of different demographics, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. This study can help clarify who would be most impacted by potential tax changes.
TNE: That leads me to the current climate regarding economic discussions. With challenges like inflation and rising living costs, how can this research be utilized to alleviate some of these pressures on families?
CM: The research provides insights that can aid in assessing which families are most vulnerable. For example, we can distinguish between single-income households and dual-income households with children, who may face different financial pressures. By understanding these nuances, social safety nets can be strengthened—whether through direct financial assistance, childcare support, or educational programs.
TNE: It sounds like there’s a significant potential for positive change if this data is effectively utilized. What steps do you think we should take next to ensure these findings reach the right audiences?
CM: One important step is to communicate these findings to both the public and policymakers in an accessible manner, so they understand the implications clearly. Engaging media, non-profits, and community organizations can help disseminate this knowledge. Additionally, it’s essential to encourage dialogue about these classifications in broader societal discussions, ensuring that everyone’s voice is represented.
TNE: It seems that dialogue and awareness are key. Before we wrap up, do you have any final thoughts on how individuals can use this information in their own lives?
CM: Yes! I encourage individuals to reflect on their own situations in light of this research. Understanding how income and family composition intersect can empower them to advocate for their needs and those of their communities. Knowledge is power—when people recognize their place within these social structures, they can push for the changes that matter to them.
TNE: Thank you so much, Dr. Moreau, for such a rich and insightful conversation. This research certainly opens the door for more informed discussions about class, income, and policy.
CM: Thank you for the opportunity! I hope this discussion inspires further exploration of these vital issues.
TNE: And for our readers, we hope this interview has shed light on an important topic. Stay tuned for more in-depth discussions on pressing social issues.