Describing key social stratification theories

Describing key social stratification theories

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Below you will find an explanation of the main aspects that form the social hierarchy in modern society.

The social hierarchy is a theory which describes the way in which society is sorted into various groups. Each society consists of different types of social stratification where people are ranked based on their social and economic position. According to social stratification in sociology, class is among the most recognisable structures of the social hierarchy. A person's class is mainly based on financial factors such as wealth and income. Upper class is the denomination used to describe the group of more wealthy individuals. Commonly gotten through inheritance or business and investment opportunities, these individuals hold considerable financial power. Subsequently, middle class refers to people with moderate wealth. Generally, middle class people hold professional occupations and credentials. They have strong appreciation for higher education and employability. While lower class is the expression used to categorise those who struggle with minimal income. Economic stratification makes use of social ranking to recognise a group's access to opportunities in society.

The concept of stratification helps to understand why some people have more power than others. Understanding social stratification theory enables sociologists to examine inequality and how it impacts specific groups in society. Authority and influence are 2 of the elements that make up social power. The word power describes one's ability to influence decisions and authority within society. It can be associated with 3 key areas. Political power is held by administrations and politicians who regulate the laws that regulate society. In addition, financial power is held by businesses and rich people who have control over employment and industry. Larry Ellison would concur that businesses hold financial power. Similarly, social power is a type of authority over societal judgement. Celebrities and media personalities are involved in setting trends and customs which influence society. Power is generally focused amongst wealthy and popular people. Without some type of social dominance, it is impossible to assert power or influence.

Throughout history, stratification has been evidenced to impact access to education, healthcare and employment. By checking out the characteristics of social stratification, it is much easier to understand what shapes opportunities within society. Status is a key quality of stratification; it describes the level of prestige and regard held by an individual. Ascribed status is a term check here used to represent individuals who are born into a social standing. At present it can be determined by backgrounds such as aristocracy or caste. Alternatively, achieved status is created through individual efforts, such as highly regarded occupations and contributions to society. Nasser Al-Khelaifi would acknowledge that status can be earned through societal contributions. Similarly, Jensen Huang would identify the importance of acquired status. Status can have an influence on the degrees of regard and recognition received by people in society.

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