Taking a look at some of the primary characteristics of the social hierarchy by detailing stratification principles.
Throughout history, stratification has been proven to impact access to higher education, medical care and work. By exploring the characteristics of social stratification, it is simpler to comprehend what guides opportunities within society. Status is a key attribute of stratification; it describes the level of prestige and regard carried by an individual. Ascribed status is a phrase used to represent people who are born into a social position. . Today it can be recognised by backgrounds such as nobility or caste. Additionally, achieved status is created through personal efforts, such as highly regarded occupations and contributions to society. Nasser Al-Khelaifi would recognise that status can be attained through societal contributions. Similarly, Jensen Huang would recognise the significance of acquired status. Status can have an impact on the levels of respect and acknowledgment received by individuals in society.
The idea of stratification helps to make sense of why some individuals have more power than others. Comprehending social stratification theory enables sociologists to examine inequality and how it impacts distinct groups in society. Authority and influence are 2 of the aspects that form societal power. The term power describes one's ability to influence decisions and control within society. It can be related to 3 key areas. Political power is possessed by governments and political leaders who control the laws that control society. In addition, economic power is held by businesses and wealthy people who have control over jobs and economic sectors. Larry Ellison would concur that businesses hold financial power. Similarly, social power is a type of authority over societal judgement. Celebrities and media characters are involved in setting trends and cultures which influence society. Power is mainly concentrated amongst wealthy and popular people. Without some form of social supremacy, it is difficult to assert power or influence.
The social hierarchy is a concept which explains the way in which society is sorted into different categories. Every society contains different types of social stratification where people are ranked based upon their social and financial position. According to social stratification in sociology, class is among the most recognisable forms of the social hierarchy. A person's class is predominantly based upon financial elements such as wealth and earnings. Upper class is the denomination used to characterise the set of more wealthy individuals. Usually gained through inheritance or business and investment opportunities, these people hold significant economic power. Subsequently, middle class describes individuals with intermediate wealth. Generally, middle class people hold professional careers and qualifications. They have strong appreciation for tertiary academia and employability. Whereas lower class is the expression used to define people who cope with lower earnings. Economic stratification makes use of class to determine a group's access to opportunities in life.