The author discusses (1) societal views toward the question of IQ measurements, (2) the actual parameters that IQ test instruments measure and their relationship to "intelligence," and (3) the use of IQ levels as an equalizing force in society. (MB)

Suggests that at this juncture in history the internal colony theory seems most relevant for understanding the complexities of race and class in a society which is both racist and capitalist. As a process oriented model, this theory helps to explain the function of race in a society based on class and sexual exploitation. (Author/AM)

Few research studies focus on middle class Blacks. This paper analyzes historical and contemporary perspectives of the group and illustrates how social mobility and social change influence the economic and political competitiveness of Blacks. Approaches and techniques for studying Blacks as part of the larger society are suggested. (VM)

Presents a classroom exercise which asks undergraduates to assign a social class ranking to nine family names which stereotypically represent ethnic groups. Students are also asked to rate the degree to which they believe social class can be inferred from ethnic family names. Presents results from several years of data collection in different…

Helped to determine whether applicants for assistance from the state employment office view fast- and large-growth occupations with a hierarchy similar to that cited in the professional literature. The close relationship between occupation and social status was confirmed. Growth occupation information did not seem to influence or affect job…

In his assessment of the growth of universities of the third age, the author examines the movement's underlying challenge to the inequalities of traditional education. He discusses the idea and movement in France, the worldwide movement, and the different forms the movement has taken in different countries. (CT)

Gift clubs at significant levels give donors a reason to make significant gifts. Mega-gift clubs succeed for four reasons: they are an attractive way to recognize donors, clubs give donors who are ready and willing an opportunity to give, they offer status, and they provide donors with tax deductions. (MLW)

This study investigates the influence of family background on (1) number of years of schooling completed, and (2) the probability of advancing to the next grade having successfully completed the present grade. Results showed decreasing influence of family background under number one but a remarkably stable influence under model two. (JDH)

Reports data on the validity of a Canadian version of Labov's "index of linguistic insecurity." Scores on the two tests were highly correlated, indicating high criterion validity of the Canadian test. Also, social class and gender differences followed the same pattern as Labov's study, with the lower middle class and females showing…

Examines sociolinguistic pressures now exerted on Gullah-speaking communities, which are similar to the general conditions described for postcreole speech communities or communities in which the traditional language variety is decreolizing or dying. There is sufficient break-down in the formerly rigid social stratification to motivate large…

Assessed feelings of loneliness of two subgroups of unpopular children, those sociometrically rejected and those sociometrically neglected. Data from 200 third through sixth graders indicated that rejected children were the most lonely group and differed significantly from other status groups. Neglected children did not differ from higher status…

Discusses the usage of French in Gabon. As in other nations of francophone Africa, French is the language of upward social mobility in Gabon, and it offers access to the international community. However, one factor peculiar to Gabon is the virtual absence of a Gabonese national language, which promotes a greater dependency upon a mastery of the…

Discusses the development of the thinking function and factors influencing that development, and presents strategies for teaching thinking. (MD)

The effect of ability, social class, gender, and achievement on students' grades was studied by examining standardized test results from mathematics and English courses. Results are discussed. (DF)

Challenges the conventional notion that the offspring of ethnic intermarriage are socially marginal using a study of children of Ashkenazi-Oriental couples in Israel. Results showed most differences were explained by academic achievement and father's education. Youth-movement participation had an independent discriminant power. (JAC)