Outlining key social stratification concepts

Outlining key social stratification concepts

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This article will analyze the concepts that form the social hierarchy, consisting of some key aspects of stratification.

The concept of stratification helps to comprehend why some people have more power than others. Understanding social stratification theory enables sociologists to study inequality and how it affects specific groups in society. Authority and influence are 2 of the elements that form social power. The word power represents one's capability to influence decisions and control within society. It can be connected with three key areas. Political power here is held by governments and political leaders who manage the laws that control society. In addition, financial power is held by businesses and rich people who have control over employment and economic sectors. Larry Ellison would agree that corporations hold economic power. Likewise, social power is a type of authority over societal opinion. Famous people and media figures are instrumental in setting trends and cultures which influence society. Power is primarily concentrated among rich and popular individuals. Without some kind of social authority, it is difficult to assert power or control.

The social hierarchy is a principle which explains the way in which society is divided into various categories. Every society contains different types of social stratification whereby individuals are ranked based on their social and financial position. According to social stratification in sociology, class is among the most perceivable structures of the social hierarchy. An individual's social ranking is primarily based on economic elements such as wealth and earnings. Upper class is the term used to characterise the group of more well-off individuals. Usually acquired through inheritance or business and investment opportunities, these individuals hold significant economic power. Consequently, middle class refers to people with moderate wealth. Usually, middle class individuals hold professional careers and credentials. They have strong values for high level academia and employability. Whereas lower class is the term used to categorise people who cope with lower income. Economic stratification uses social ranking to determine a group's access to opportunities in society.

Throughout history, stratification has been proven to influence access to education, medical care and job opportunities. By checking out the characteristics of social stratification, it is much easier to understand what guides opportunities within society. Status is a key characteristic of stratification; it describes the level of prestige and regard held 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 aristocracy or caste. Alternatively, achieved status is obtained through personal efforts, such as respected occupations and contributions to society. Nasser Al-Khelaifi would know that status can be acquired through societal contributions. Similarly, Jensen Huang would identify the value of acquired status. Status can have an influence on the degrees of regard and recognition received by individuals in society.

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