Social life

SOCIAL LIFE IN THE UK

LECTURE 10

10.1.1. Perhaps the worst feature of the current class situation in Britain is the existence of a permanent underclass. These people are on the dole, that is, on welfare, permanently. They subsist in poor surroundings with little hope that they or their children, who usually drop out of school, will break out of the cycle of poverty. Another social problem, somewhat related to this underclass, has been the rise in crime and violence. Vandalism and rowdiness by youths are problems in British society, and the brutality of British football (soccer) fans has gained international notoriety.

10.1.2. The degree to which racism is a problem in Britain is a source of debate. Some say it is a hidden tradition and others believe that decency and fair play prevail. As the percentage of women in Britain’s workforce has risen, women have struggled for equal pay for equal work, a goal as yet unachieved. The state passed an Equal Pay Act that has been aggressively applied to civil service, teaching, and local government jobs. The Sex Discrimination Act made discrimination between men and women unlawful in employment, education, training, housing, facilities, and services. In 1997, 121 women were elected to the House of Commons out of a total 659 members.

10.1.3. British houses are made with concrete blocks or concrete-like building materials because the dampness of the climate causes wood to rot. In general, British people are much more tolerant of the damp chill and less tolerant of heat over 26°C (80°F). Clothes reflect the climate, and woolen goods, particularly tweeds, are famous products. British cooking has a reputation for overcooked vegetables and unhealthy fried foods. This situation has improved considerably in recent years, and foreign foods, particularly those from southern Europe and Asia, have become popular.

10.1.4. The British tend to socialize by joining clubs and hobby groups. The local public house, or pub, serves alcoholic beverages and is an important gathering place, particularly for the working class. Although British society is overwhelmingly urban and suburban, links with its agricultural past are reflected in the popularity of gardening. Politeness is a hallmark of British society, and shouting is regarded as rude. People are often reserved and do not want to show emotion in public, although this appears to be changing. Sports are important, and an estimated 29 million people participate in a variety of sports. Many more are spectators of professional sports. Fishing is popular, but the few people who take up hunting come under considerable criticism for doing so. Reading, music, culture, and the arts are pursued zealously by countless millions.

Дата добавления: 2014-01-07