Habitus, countryside and capital. Elements for a general theory of political capital

Abstract

The sociological theory of Pierre Bourdieu provides the basis for identifying and typifying the forms of capital on which domination in various social fields is based. This theoretical basis is used to clarify the main elements for a general theory of political capital through the notions of habitus, field and capital. The author engages politological literature in a dialogue with sociology in order to produce a general theory of political capital by identifying certain species. Some of these make it possible to gain access to the political field and embark on a career in this sphere and are typified on the basis of the literature on “elites,” “class” or political “personnel” in five countries (Chile, Mexico, Brazil, France and the United States) whereas others explain the trajectory of agents and the subsequent reconversion of their resources once they have begun their careers in this field.