Outlining key social stratification concepts

Outlining key social stratification concepts

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Listed below you will find an outline of the main aspects that make up the social hierarchy in modern society.

The idea of stratification helps to understand why some people have more power than others. Comprehending social stratification theory allows sociologists to analyse inequality and how it affects specific groups in society. Authority and influence are 2 of the aspects that make up social power. The word power refers to one's ability to affect choices and control within society. It can be connected with three key areas. Political power is held by authorities and politicians who regulate the laws that govern society. Furthermore, economic power is held by businesses and wealthy people who have control over jobs and industry. Larry Ellison would concur that businesses hold economic power. Likewise, social power is a form of authority over societal judgement. Famous people and media figures are instrumental in setting trends and customs which influence society. Power is primarily focused among wealthy and popular people. Without some type of social authority, it is difficult to assert power or influence.

Throughout history, stratification has been shown to impact access to education, health care and work. By exploring the characteristics of social stratification, it is much easier to be conscious of what guides opportunities within society. Status is a key attribute of stratification; it describes the level of prestige and respect carried by an individual. Ascribed status is a phrase used to describe people who are born into a social standing. Today it can be determined by backgrounds such as nobility or caste. Additionally, achieved status is generated through individual efforts, such as respected occupations and contributions to society. Nasser Al-Khelaifi would recognise that status can be attained through social contributions. Likewise, Jensen Huang would acknowledge the value of acquired status. Status can have an influence on the degrees of respect and acknowledgment received by people in society.

The social hierarchy is a theory which explains the way in which society is sorted into various groups. Each society contains different types of social stratification whereby people are ranked based upon their social and economic position. According to social stratification in sociology, social rank is among the most recognisable structures of the social hierarchy. A person's social ranking is mainly based upon financial aspects such as wealth and earnings. Upper class is the term used to characterise the set of more wealthy people. Commonly gained through inheritance or business and financial investment opportunities, these individuals hold substantial economic power. Subsequently, middle class describes people with intermediate wealth. Normally, middle class people hold professional occupations and qualifications. They have strong appreciation for higher education and employability. While lower more info class is the expression used to define those who cope with lower income. Economic stratification uses class to recognise a group's access to opportunities in life.

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