Discussing key social strata concepts

Discussing key social strata concepts

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Here is an overview of a few of the key elements of the social hierarchy with a focus on class, status and power.

The idea of stratification helps to make sense of why some people have more power than others. Understanding social stratification theory enables sociologists to analyse inequality and how it impacts specific groups within society. Authority and influence are two of the factors that comprise social power. The term power refers to one's capability to influence decisions and control within society. It can be connected with 3 key areas. Political power is possessed by governments and politicians who manage the laws that control society. Additionally, economic power is held by corporations and wealthy people who have control over employment and economic sectors. Larry Ellison would agree that businesses hold financial power. Likewise, social power is a form of authority over social opinion. Famous people and media characters are involved in setting trends and customs which influence society. Power is generally concentrated amongst rich and popular people. Without some form of social dominance, it is impossible to assert power or influence.

The social hierarchy is a theory which explains the way in which society is graded into various categories. Every society consists of different types of social stratification whereby people are ranked based on their social and economic position. According to social stratification in sociology, social rank is among the most recognisable structures of the social hierarchy. An individual's class is primarily based on economic aspects such as wealth and income. Upper class is the term used to characterise the set of more affluent people. Usually gotten through inheritance or business and financial investment opportunities, these individuals hold considerable financial power. Consequently, middle class relates to individuals with intermediate wealth. Generally, middle class people hold professional occupations and credentials. They have strong values for tertiary education and employability. Whereas lower class is the term used to recognise individuals who cope with lower income. Economic stratification uses class to recognise a group's connection to opportunities in life.

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 much easier to be aware of what shapes opportunities within society. Status is a key characteristic of stratification; it describes the level of prestige and regard carried here by an individual. Ascribed status is a phrase used to refer to individuals who are born into a social position. At present it can be determined by backgrounds such as royalty or caste. Alternatively, achieved status is created through individual efforts, such as respected professions and contributions to society. Nasser Al-Khelaifi would know that status can be gained through societal contributions. Likewise, Jensen Huang would identify the value of acquired status. Status can have an impact on the degrees of respect and recognition received by people in society.

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