Social stratification refers to the hierarchical arrangement of individuals or groups in a society based on factors such as wealth, power, education, occupation, and social status. It creates structured inequalities, where some groups have greater access to resources and opportunities than others.
Key Features of Social Stratification:
- Hierarchical Ranking: People are ranked in a social order based on different criteria like income, prestige, or political power.
- Persistence Over Time: Social stratification tends to continue across generations, though social mobility (movement between classes) can occur.
- Different Forms: It can take various forms, including class (economic stratification), caste (hereditary and rigid system), race, gender, and education.
- Impact on Life Chances: A person’s position in the social hierarchy influences their access to quality healthcare, education, employment, and overall well-being.
Types of Social Stratification:
- Slavery: A system where individuals are owned by others and have little to no rights.
- Caste System: A rigid form of stratification where social status is inherited and mobility is highly restricted (e.g., India’s traditional caste system).
- Class System: A more flexible system where social mobility is possible based on wealth, education, and achievement (e.g., capitalism in modern societies).
- Status Hierarchies: Stratification based on social prestige rather than wealth or power (e.g., celebrities, religious leaders).
- Gender and Racial Stratification: Inequality based on gender or race, affecting access to resources and opportunities.