Valia S. Aranitou, is an Associate Professor at the Department of Sociology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. She studied Economics and Social Sciences in Athens and in Paris. In her doctoral thesis, she explored the case of small traders in post-war Greece within the context of social identity and political behavior. Her research interests include: social classes and social structure, organized interests and their role in the political system, recent developments in labour relations and the economic prerequisites of Democracy and Greek economy.

Valia Aranitou has authored numerous articles in Greek, English and French journals and edited volumes concerning middle class and social dialogue and four books: In addition, she is the scientific Director of the Research Institute of Greek Commerce and SMEs, the Institute of the Hellenic Confederation of Commerce and Entrepreneurship. Valia Aranitou has been member of the board of the Hellenic Political Science Association, of the Secretariat of “Nicos Poulantzas” Institute and of “ENA” Institute for Alternative Policies.