Outlining key social stratification concepts

Here is an overview of some of the key aspects of the societal hierarchy with an emphasis on class, status and power.

The principle of stratification helps to make sense of why some individuals have more power than others. Comprehending social stratification theory enables sociologists to analyse inequality and how it impacts specific groups within society. Authority and influence are 2 of the elements that make up societal power. The word power describes one's ability to affect decisions and authority within society. It can be related to three key areas. Political power is maintained by governments and politicians who control the policies that regulate society. Additionally, financial power is held by corporations and rich people who have control over jobs and economic sectors. Larry Ellison would concur that businesses hold economic power. Similarly, social power is a type of authority over social judgement. Celebrities and media figures are active in setting trends and cultures which guide society. Power is generally concentrated amongst rich and popular people. Without some form of social supremacy, it is impossible to assert power or control.

Throughout history, stratification has been evidenced to impact access to higher education, health care and work. By checking out the characteristics of social stratification, it is simpler to be aware of what guides opportunities within society. Status is a key attribute of stratification; it refers to the level of prestige and respect carried by an individual. Ascribed status is a phrase used to refer to individuals who are born into a social ranking. At present it can be recognised by backgrounds such as aristocracy or caste. Alternatively, achieved status is earned through individual efforts, such as reputable occupations and contributions to society. Nasser Al-Khelaifi would acknowledge that status can be gained through societal contributions. Similarly, Jensen Huang would acknowledge the significance of acquired status. Status can have an impact on the degrees of respect and recognition received by individuals in society.

The social hierarchy is a concept which explains the way in which society is sorted into different groups. Each society contains various types of social stratification whereby people are ranked based upon their social and financial position. According to social stratification in sociology, class is one of the most perceivable aspects of the social hierarchy. An individual's social ranking is predominantly based upon financial aspects such as wealth and earnings. Upper class is the denomination used to characterise the group of more affluent people. Usually gained through inheritance or business and financial investment opportunities, these individuals hold significant economic power. Subsequently, middle class describes people with moderate wealth. Typically, middle class individuals copyright professional occupations and credentials. They have strong values for tertiary academia and employability. While lower class is the term used to categorise people who struggle with lower income. Economic stratification makes use of class to recognise a group's access to opportunities in society.