Understanding the Problem of Homelessness: A Case for using Habitus as a Tool

Abstract

Homeless people are perhaps the most faceless and voiceless group in a city’s populace. It is imperative that they are given a voice to articulate their views and experiences. So far, there have been a few analytical studies in the West which have tried to capture the lived experiences of the homeless. However, very few studies in India have incorporated their world views and perspectives, as a result of which, we do not know much about their day to day life experiences. Therefore, for addressing the problem of homelessness and for planning interventions, it is necessary to understand and document the various causes and cultures of homelessness by incorporating the lived experiences and world views of the homeless. This paper argues that while building a nuanced peoples’ narrative in this manner, the concept of habitus and social field as given by Pierre Bourdieu can prove to be of immense value.