Modern underclass theories and Chicago School marginality concepts: theoretical comparison

Abstract

Current article includes comparative analysis of contemporary lower strata studies and classical Chicago school studies devoted to the same topic. In the beginning contemporary underclass concepts are examined: their sources, key theoretical constructions, explanations of this strata existence. Direct comparison with Chicago scholars’ standpoints based on four key parameters: welfare programs interdependence; emphasis on race and ethnic minorities’ problems; “inner city” territorial isolation; disposition towards deviation. Another important idea of the whole article is principal similarity of theoretical tasks through different epochs regardless historical differences of the empiric object.