The Relevance of Domestic Property to Sociological Understanding

Abstract

Taken as a whole, this paper is an exercise in critical sociology. The history of the sociology of housing is briefly assessed. It is then argued that to make sense of the subject matter a conception of domestic property is needed. Domestic property is defined by the ownership and control of the means and relations of life-support. Sketches of hierarchical aspects of the phenomenon are given. Neo-feudalism is said to be the cultural characteristic of domestic property and it indicates initial weaknesses in the concept. Further the concept is judged to be poor in the light of alternative perspectives on its features: income sources; property extensiveness and property rights. Nevertheless the concept is held to be useful because it cuts across the politics of self interest to which housing is currently subject. Finally the concept suggests an alternative approach to such politics, advocating that there be a guaranteed right to life-support.