• Definition: Habitus is a system of durable, transposable dispositions. These dispositions are structured structures predisposed to function as structuring structures, meaning they are internalized schemes that generate practices and perceptions.
• Internalization of Social Structures: It is essentially the way that social structures become internalized within individuals. This internalization occurs through early socialization and ongoing experiences. Britannica
• Shaping Perceptions and Actions: It shapes how individuals perceive the world, what they value, and how they act within different social contexts. It generates practices that are regular and patterned without being consciously calculated. Oxford Reference
• Relationship to Field: The habitus operates within a "field," which is a specific arena of social life with its own rules, resources, and power dynamics. The habitus of an individual influences their position and success within a particular field.
• Dynamic and Evolving: While the habitus is deeply ingrained, it is not fixed. It can be modified by new experiences, although early experiences have a particularly strong influence. Routledge Encyclopedia of Social Theory

Consider someone raised in a family of doctors. Their habitus might include a natural inclination towards academic achievement, a familiarity with medical terminology and practices, and a sense of comfort and belonging in healthcare settings. This habitus would then influence their educational and career choices, making them more likely to pursue a career in medicine. However, someone from a different social background might find the norms and expectations of the medical field alienating or difficult to navigate.

Bourdieu's concept of habitus helps to explain how social inequalities are reproduced across generations. It shows how individuals' perceptions and actions are shaped by their social backgrounds, leading them to reproduce the existing social order, often unintentionally.