Abstract
In this article I argue over the existence of a symbolic boundary between the poor and part of the Chilean economic elite -linked to exclusive Catholic schools- based on the definition of the poor as morally deprived and in need of moral education. Discourse analysis of alumni and parents' interviews shows that the poor are seen as entirely responsible of their situation whereas the determining role of structural factors of society is not entirely recognized. The definition of the poor as "lacking of culture" puts them at the inferior position of moral hierarchy, justifying educative and paternalistic actions. However, even education is recognized as a process with limitations: according to the informants discourse, there are certain attitudes and knowledge that only "good families" with tradition can convey.
Keywords:
economic elite; symbolic boundaries; morality; poor people; Chile