Explanation
The concept of habitus was developed by French sociologist Pierre Bourdieu to explain how social structures are internalized by individuals and guide their practices without conscious deliberation. Habitus refers to the deeply ingrained habits, skills, tastes, and ways of behaving that individuals acquire through socialization, particularly during childhood.
Habitus is both structured by one’s social position (e.g., class, education, family background) and structuring in the sense that it influences how individuals navigate and reproduce the social world. It is not static but can evolve with new experiences and contexts. Through habitus, individuals carry within themselves the history of their social group, which manifests in everyday practices, preferences, and behaviors.
Theoretical Reference
Habitus is a key concept in Pierre Bourdieu’s theory of practice and is closely linked to his notions of capital (economic, social, cultural, symbolic) and the field (structured social spaces). It bridges the gap between structure and agency in sociological theory.