Chapter 5 explores how the aspirations and expectations toward work shape the social classes of two distinct groups: the Hallway Hangers and the Brothers. This analysis is crucial in understanding the perpetuation of class inequality, as the future occupations of these young men are likely to mirror those of their parents, contributing to social reproduction.

MacLeod makes an important distinction between aspirations and expectations. Aspirations refer to one’s ideal preferences, unencumbered by reality, while expectations consider actual capabilities and the real constraints of the job market. This distinction is fundamental in analyzing how each group views its future in the workforce.

The Hallway Hangers display a grim outlook. Their aspirations, subdued by severe cynicism stemming from their lived experiences and family histories, have ingrained in them a sense of futility regarding upward mobility. They view work merely as a necessity rather than a path to personal fulfillment. For instance, Jinx embodies this sentiment by dismissing the notion of having career aspirations, suggesting instead that they will take whatever jobs they can get, which they expect to be low-skill and low-pay positions.

On the other hand, the Brothers hold a more optimistic view.