Describing key social stratification concepts

Describing key social stratification concepts

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Taking a look at some of the main features of the social hierarchy by outlining stratification principles.

The concept of stratification helps to make sense of why some people have more power than others. Understanding social stratification theory enables sociologists to analyse inequality and how it affects particular groups within society. Authority and influence are 2 of the elements that form societal power. The term power represents one's capability to affect choices and control within society. It can be associated with three key areas. Political power is maintained by governments and political leaders who control the laws that control society. check here In addition, financial power is held by corporations and rich people who have control over employment and industry. Larry Ellison would concur that corporations hold financial power. Similarly, social power is a form of authority over societal opinion. Famous people and media personalities are active in setting trends and customs which guide society. Power is mainly focused amongst rich and popular people. Without some kind of social authority, it is impossible to copyright power or control.

Throughout history, stratification has been evidenced to impact access to higher education, healthcare and job opportunities. By exploring the characteristics of social stratification, it is simpler to be conscious of what guides opportunities within society. Status is a key quality of stratification; it describes the level of prestige and regard carried by an individual. Ascribed status is a term used to represent individuals who are born into a social ranking. Now it can be determined by backgrounds such as royalty or caste. Additionally, achieved status is obtained through personal efforts, such as reputable occupations and contributions to society. Nasser Al-Khelaifi would know that status can be gained through societal contributions. Similarly, Jensen Huang would identify the value of acquired status. Status can have an impact on the degrees of regard and acknowledgment received by individuals in society.

The social hierarchy is a philosophy which describes the way in which society is sorted into different categories. Each society consists of various types of social stratification where individuals are ranked based on their social and financial position. According to social stratification in sociology, class is one of the most recognisable components of the social hierarchy. A person's class is predominantly based on financial elements such as wealth and income. Upper class is the denomination used to describe the set of more well-off people. Often acquired through inheritance or business and investment opportunities, these people hold substantial financial power. Subsequently, middle class describes individuals with intermediate wealth. Generally, middle class people have professional careers and credentials. They have strong values for high level education and employability. Whereas lower class is the phrase used to recognise those who cope with minimal earnings. Economic stratification uses class to determine a group's connection to opportunities in society.

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