The Concept of Class in Closure Theory: Learning from Rather than Falling into the Problems Encountered by Neo-Marxism

Abstract

Parkin has developed a unified conceptual framework which integrates the analysis of class divisions with the analysis of communal divisions, arguing that all of these divisions are based on processes of social closure which are of the same generic kind. Within his closure model he proposes a non-structuralist collective action conception of class. This paper examines critically the conception of class of Parkin and of the Marxist structuralists he was reacting against when he developed his conception. It demonstrates that the deficiencies of Parkin's conception are the result of that reaction: he has thrown out essential conceptual tools with the bathwater. Thus the paper shows that he falls into the same difficulties as E.P. Thompson in the latter's anti-structuralist position within Marxism. The paper then suggests an alternative for closure theory to Parkin's conception of class and class action and to his way of dealing with the connection between exclusionary practices faced and collective usurpationary action engaged in.