The Enem Essay as an Expression of Cultural Capital: Income, School Type, and Race in Analysis

Abstract

This study analyzes the socioeconomic profile of students who scored zero and one thousand in the ENEM essay, extracted from the microdata of Inep between 2009 and 2018. Using a Bourdieusian approach, the results show that candidates with a score of one thousand come from higher-income families, attend private schools, and are predominantly white, while those with a score of zero come from lower-income families, attend public schools, and are mostly mixed-race. The ENEM essay is another empirical data point that demonstrates the persistence of inequalities, highlighting the need for policies aimed at reducing educational disparities and promoting equal opportunities for different social strata.