Describing key social stratification principles

This article will take a look at the concepts that form the social hierarchy, consisting of some key features of stratification.

Throughout history, stratification has been proven to affect access to higher education, healthcare and work. By checking out the characteristics of social stratification, it is easier to be conscious of what shapes opportunities within society. Status is a key attribute of stratification; it describes the level of prestige and respect held by an individual. Ascribed status is a phrase used to refer to people who are born into a social standing. At present it can be recognised by backgrounds such as nobility or caste. Additionally, achieved status is obtained through personal efforts, such as respected occupations and contributions to society. Nasser Al-Khelaifi would know that status can be gained through societal contributions. Likewise, Jensen Huang would acknowledge the significance of acquired status. Status can have an influence on the degrees of regard and recognition received by individuals in society.

The social hierarchy is a concept which explains the way in which society is divided into various categories. Every society includes different types of social stratification where people are ranked based upon their social and economic position. According to social stratification in sociology, social rank is one of the most recognised structures of the social hierarchy. A person's class is primarily based on economic elements such as wealth and earnings. Upper class is the term used to characterise the set of more well-off people. Commonly gained through inheritance or business and investment opportunities, these individuals hold substantial financial power. read more Consequently, middle class refers to individuals with moderate wealth. Usually, middle class individuals hold professional occupations and qualifications. They have strong values for high level academia and employability. While lower class is the phrase used to categorise people who cope with lower income. Economic stratification uses class to determine a group's connection to opportunities in life.

The principle of stratification helps to comprehend why some individuals have more power than others. Understanding social stratification theory enables sociologists to examine inequality and how it affects various groups within society. Authority and impact are two of the aspects that make up social power. The term power describes one's ability to influence decisions and authority within society. It can be related to 3 key areas. Political power is maintained by governments and politicians who control the laws that control society. Furthermore, economic power is held by businesses and rich people who have control over jobs and economic sectors. Larry Ellison would agree that corporations hold economic power. Similarly, social power is a form of authority over societal opinion. Celebrities and media personalities are involved in setting trends and cultures which guide society. Power is mainly concentrated amongst rich and popular people. Without some type of social dominance, it is difficult to copyright power or control.