From Cultural Capital to Traffic Capital: On the Transformation Mechanism of Class Symbols in Platform Society

Ziyu Li

doi:10.54254/2753-7048/2025.CB24784

Lecture Notes in Education Psychology and Public MediaOpen access

From Cultural Capital to Traffic Capital: On the Transformation Mechanism of Class Symbols in Platform Society

Research Article

Open Access

From Cultural Capital to Traffic Capital: On the Transformation Mechanism of Class Symbols in Platform Society

Ziyu Li ^1*

¹ Communication University of China Nanjing

^*Corresponding author: liziyu01925@gmail.com

Published on 11 July 2025

LNEP Vol.106

ISSN (Print): 2753-7056

ISSN (Online): 2753-7048

ISBN (Print): 978-1-80590-253-9

ISBN (Online): 978-1-80590-254-6

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Abstract

This study aims to explore the transformation mechanism of cultural capital into flow capital in the digital society and reveal the internal motivations leading to the formation of digital stratification. This study conducts an in-depth analysis of Pierre Bourdieu's classic interpretation of cultural capital theory. Combined with the evolution of capital forms in the digital environment, this paper systematically demonstrates how cultural capital is reshaped into flow capital in digital platforms, thereby affecting the social identity and status of individuals. In the process of research, it is found that the differences in the paths of capital acquisition among different groups, especially the structural exclusion phenomenon in the operation of platform algorithms, have contributed to the solidification and mobility of digital identity. With the help of multiple dimensions such as economy, culture, politics and society, this study explores the social consequences of this class stratification, including potential threats to social cohesion and justice. Finally, the study proposes a governance path for building an inclusive digital society, emphasizing algorithmic transparency and responsible regulation, rationally redistributing capital, and focusing on the importance of cultural reconstruction, advocating transcending the logic of flows and achieving the return of value in an algorithm-dominated environment. The research results provide a new perspective for understanding class dynamics in the digital age and promote the deepening and expansion of relevant theoretical frameworks.

Keywords:

Platform society, digital class segmentation, algorithmic mechanism, cultural capital, traffic capital.

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