Quote:
Originally posted by KillarneyRose
I wish I could remember the name of this book, but it outlined differences between the socio-economic classes in the United States and one entire chapter was devoted to naming trends.
Mentioned was something called, I believe, "Trickle down". Meaning, the upper class uses certain names for a few years then the middle, many of whom want to emulate the upper class, starts using those names. The upper class then moves on to other names.
Those same names then trickle down to the lower classes.
Hence, within the span of a generation, a name can go from being considered a "high class" name to being heard in trailer parks from coast to coast.
Examples of such names were listed, but I didn't think it was necessary to post them here.
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Was it "Class" by Paul Fussell? I had to read that book for a Sociology class back in the day. I don't remember names in that one, but it sounds about right.
In the NYTimes a few months ago, there was an article about the link between socioeconomics, race, and name choices.
As for me, I can't stand "stripper" names: Tiffany, Crystal, Brandi, Kayla, Staci. But, since Mini-Munchkins are 10 years away (if at all), I have a while to think. I imagine I'll stick with traditional names. Nothing ending in -isha, -ita, or -ika for me!