Navigating Urban Citizenship: The enactment and reflection of the Havermelk Elite on being a citizen in Amsterdam
Summary
This thesis investigates the interplay between individualism and citizenship among Amsterdam's "Havermelk Elite," a term derived from Elizabeth Currid-Halkett’s concept of the 'aspirational class.' The study examines whether the behaviors and values of this socially conscious, culturally engaged group are driven by personal choice or influenced by broader societal forces such as capitalism and urban pressures.
The research employed two primary methods: participant observation and semi-structured interviews. Initially, participant observation was used to gather insights into daily interactions and reflections on citizenship among members of the Havermelk Elite. This approach involved visiting various locations across Amsterdam, engaging in informal conversations, and documenting observations in a notebook. This immersion helped establish rapport with participants and provided a foundational understanding of their social environment.
In addition, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 anonymous participants. These interviews, guided by a list of thematic questions, delved into their perceptions of Amsterdam, their sense of belonging, and their views on citizenship, societal behaviors, and climate change. The aim was to explore how these professionals perceive their rights and responsibilities as citizens and how these perceptions are shaped by their urban lifestyle.
Ethical considerations were integral to the research. As an insider-outsider with a personal connection to Amsterdam, the researcher was mindful of potential biases and ensured transparency and respect throughout the study. Participants were anonymized, and informed consent was continuously sought to uphold ethical standards.
The findings reveal that the Havermelk Elite’s behaviors are not solely a result of personal choice but are significantly influenced by external systems, including urban pressures and capitalist demands. The study challenges the notion that this group is inherently more individualistic. Instead, it suggests that their lifestyle, characterized by high-paying jobs, high living costs, and constant self-improvement, is a response to the broader societal context in which they live. This environment leaves little room for collective action and heightens the tension between individual choices and collective responsibilities.
The thesis contributes to anthropological discussions by providing a nuanced understanding of the Havermelk Elite, challenging oversimplified local narratives and extending the theoretical framework of the aspirational class to Amsterdam. It also explores how this elite group constructs their identity in contrast to outsiders, drawing parallels with Edward Said’s concept of Orientalism and examining political polarization between urban and rural areas. Furthermore, the study redefines citizenship beyond legal status to include social, political, and ecological dimensions, highlighting tensions between individual rights and environmental responsibilities.
Future research could benefit from a longer ethnographic study to deepen insights into participants’ lifestyles and exploring intersectionality within the Havermelk Elite. Comparing similar groups in other cities and focusing on environmental citizenship could provide valuable insights into urban sustainability and global citizenship. Overall, this thesis enhances our understanding of how contemporary urban professionals navigate the challenges of modern living and their roles as citizens in a complex social landscape.