Abstract
The current state and opportunities for middleclass development are discussed in this article. On the basis of existing approaches the author works out her own definition of middle class. Criteria to determine representatives of Belarusian middle class, such as specialized secondary and higher education, professional status, average per capita money incomes are grounded. It is discovered that characteristics of "education as precondition" is shared by 1/2, of "profession as instrument" - by 1/3, and of "income as a final aim" - by 1/5 of Belarusian population. Existence of such serious problem as professional potential under-usage is indicated. Limited opportunities for middle class functioning in spheres of social diversification and stabilization, as well as in expanded reproduction of scientific and educational potential of society are shown. It is resumed that in order to realize social role and functions associated with middle class in the West its Belarusian counterpart (which currently accounts for 1/5 of total population) has to increase in numbers, acquire economical independence and become a competent subject of innovative reforms.
Keywords
middle class, criterion of specialized secondary and higher education, criterion of professional status, criterion of average per capita money incomes
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