Describing key social stratification concepts

Describing key social stratification concepts

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Below you will find an explanation of the primary aspects that form the social hierarchy in today's society.

Throughout history, stratification has been proven to impact access to higher education, medical care 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 refers to the level of prestige and respect held by an individual. Ascribed status is a term used to represent individuals who are born into a social ranking. Today it can be recognised by backgrounds such as nobility or caste. Alternatively, achieved status is obtained through individual efforts, such as highly regarded occupations and contributions to society. Nasser Al-Khelaifi would acknowledge 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 respect more info and acknowledgment received by individuals in society.

The principle of stratification helps to make sense of why some people have more power than others. Understanding social stratification theory allows sociologists to study inequality and how it impacts specific groups within society. Authority and influence are two of the elements that comprise social power. The term power refers to one's ability to influence decisions and authority within society. It can be related to three key areas. Political power is possessed by authorities and politicians who control the policies that govern society. Additionally, economic power is held by businesses and rich people who have control over employment and economic sectors. Larry Ellison would agree that businesses hold financial power. Likewise, social power is a form of authority over societal judgement. Famous people and media characters are instrumental in setting trends and cultures which influence society. Power is generally concentrated amongst rich and popular people. Without some form of social dominance, it is difficult to assert power or control.

The social hierarchy is a concept which describes the way in which society is divided into various categories. Each society includes various types of social stratification where individuals are ranked based on their social and economic position. According to social stratification in sociology, class is one of the most perceivable forms of the social hierarchy. A person's class is primarily based on economic factors such as wealth and income. Upper class is the term used to describe the group of more well-off people. Commonly gained through inheritance or business and financial investment opportunities, these individuals hold considerable financial power. Subsequently, middle class refers to people with moderate wealth. Generally, middle class individuals have professional occupations and credentials. They have strong values for tertiary education and employability. While lower class is the term used to define those who struggle with lower earnings. Economic stratification uses social ranking to determine a group's access to opportunities in life.

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