What does "cultural capital" refer to?

Cultural capital refers to the non-financial social assets that promote social mobility. This concept, introduced by sociologist Pierre Bourdieu, emphasizes the idea that individuals possess certain skills, knowledge, education, and cultural competencies that can influence their position within society. For example, understanding cultural norms, language proficiency, and social etiquette are all forms of cultural capital that can facilitate interactions in various social settings.

This concept contrasts sharply with mere financial assets, as it focuses more on intangible traits and backgrounds that contribute to an individual's ability to navigate the social landscape effectively. Such attributes can provide advantages in various contexts, including education and employment, thereby aiding in achieving social mobility.

In considering the other options, while financial assets do play a role in social mobility, they do not encompass the diverse range of skills and knowledge encompassed by cultural capital. Legal rights and obligations pertain to formal societal structures rather than personal attributes that can aid in personal advancement. Geographical resources, though relevant to a culture's economic situation, do not directly relate to the concept of social mobility informed by cultural skills and competencies.