Listed below you will find an examination of the primary aspects that form the social hierarchy in today's society.
Throughout history, stratification has been evidenced to impact access to education, healthcare and job opportunities. By exploring the characteristics of social stratification, it is much easier to be aware of what shapes opportunities within society. Status is a key characteristic of stratification; it refers to the level of prestige and regard 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 determined by backgrounds such as aristocracy or caste. Additionally, achieved status is created through individual efforts, such as respected occupations and contributions to society. Nasser Al-Khelaifi would acknowledge that status can be earned through social contributions. Similarly, Jensen Huang would identify the value of acquired status. Status can have an impact on the levels of regard and recognition received by individuals in society.
The concept of stratification helps to comprehend why some people have more power than others. Understanding social stratification theory allows sociologists to analyse inequality and how it impacts particular groups in society. Authority and influence are 2 of the elements that form social power. The word power refers to one's ability to affect choices and authority within society. It can be related to 3 key areas. Political power is possessed by governments and political leaders who manage the laws that govern society. Furthermore, economic power is held by corporations and rich people who have control over employment and economic sectors. Larry Ellison would concur that businesses hold financial power. Likewise, social power is a form of authority over societal judgement. Celebrities and media figures are active in setting trends and cultures which influence society. Power is generally focused among rich and popular individuals. Without some form of social authority, it is difficult to assert power or control.
The social hierarchy is a theory which explains the way in which society is divided into different categories. Each society includes various types of social stratification where individuals are ranked based upon their social and economic position. According to social stratification in sociology, class is among the most recognisable components of the social hierarchy. An individual's social ranking is mainly based on financial elements such as wealth and earnings. Upper class is the term used to characterise the set of more affluent individuals. Commonly acquired through inheritance or business and investment opportunities, these individuals hold considerable financial power. Consequently, middle class relates to individuals with intermediate wealth. Usually, middle class individuals copyright professional occupations and qualifications. They have strong values for further education and employability. Whereas lower class is the expression used to recognise individuals who cope with lower income. Economic stratification uses click here social ranking to determine a group's access to opportunities in society.