There is no middle ground between governing and being governed, between absolute rule and freedom."

VOA: special.2011.04.21

Back at the 50-room hotel, you are afforded an impressively civilized welcome, considering that you are in the absolute middle of nowhere.

FORBES: Magazine Article

So defining the middle class in absolute terms is hard (see article).

ECONOMIST: Burgeoning bourgeoisie

Ditto for whether the absolute standard of living of the poor and middle class improves or declines.

FORBES: Move up http://i.forbesimg.com t Move down