concept, theoretical framework, models & empirical studies Saeed, Seema creator Weber, Karl E. Chairperson Delsol, Jean Pierre Co-Chairperson text series technical report th Bangkok Asian Institute of Technology 1992 continuing eng 27 leaves Modern "class" theories view social classes as socio-economic entities which are defined by cultural values and norms, as well as the material standing of individuals. Industrialization gives rise to a three-class society, in which an intermediate class has emerged. This middle class ranges from the non-manual white-collar workers who enjoy a better social and economic position than the manual workers of the working class, to the skilled technical experts who stand just below the "rich" upper class in the social structure. Middle class is often seen as an urban phenomenon. Various fields of study have researched the middle class and its potential as a strong social driving force. Through the review of literature, this paper attempts to understand the middle class as a socio-economic institution of modern societies. A special study submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science, School of Engineering and Technology Special Studies Project Report (M. Sc.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 1992 Middle classes Asian Institute of Technology. http://203.159.5.9/ait-thesis/detail.php?q=B16972 http://203.159.5.9/ait-thesis/detail.php?q=B16972 121095 20260819085726.0