Social reproduction in times of crisis: Inter-generational tensions in Southern Europe

Abstract

Social reproduction can be defined as a form of continuity linking generations around household projects of making a living and enhancing future opportunity. It can also be defined as the continuity of social organization that distributes power and assets unequally. This chapter is about these two aspects of social reproduction and their articulation. In the process, inter-generational forms of care overlap with conflict and resentment at different scales. While obligations of solidarity weave everyday actions of support around parents and children, at a larger societal scale discourses of privilege regarding access to resources such as stable jobs, assets (home ownership)...