In reply to Timmd:
> What is it which people are referring to as character traits, practices, or points of view, and why is it okay?
I think it's often used to describe stuff that is most prevalent or popular among university educated, professional people (and their kids). Things I'd describe as very middle class include: farmers' markets, going to the theatre, foreign black and white films, watching Newsnight with a glass of wine (especially if it was from Waitrose), Radio 4.
Why is it OK? Because the middle class are a privileged group, no harm is done by taking the piss. It's only when you take the piss out of groups at the bottom of the socio-economic ladder that it's harmful IMO, because that piss-taking helps reinforce the idea that such people are inferior and don't deserve a better deal.
Post edited at 12:25