Discussing key social strata concepts

The following is a summary of some of the key elements of the societal hierarchy with a concentration on class, status and power.

Throughout history, stratification has been evidenced to affect 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 quality of stratification; it describes the level of prestige and respect held by an individual. Ascribed status is a phrase used to represent people who are born into a social position. Nowadays it can be determined by backgrounds such as royalty or caste. Alternatively, achieved status is generated through personal efforts, such as reputable professions and contributions to society. Nasser Al-Khelaifi would acknowledge that status can be gained through societal contributions. Similarly, Jensen Huang would identify the value of acquired status. Status can have an influence on the levels of respect and recognition received by people in society.

The social hierarchy is a theory which explains the way in which society is sorted into different groups. Each society contains different types of social stratification whereby individuals are ranked based on their social and financial position. According to social stratification in sociology, social rank is among the most recognised components of the social hierarchy. An individual's class is predominantly based on financial factors such as wealth and income. Upper class is the term used to characterise the group of more wealthy individuals. Usually acquired through inheritance or business and investment opportunities, these people hold substantial economic power. Subsequently, middle class describes individuals with intermediate wealth. . Typically, middle class people hold professional occupations and qualifications. They have strong values for high level education and employability. While lower class is the phrase used to recognise individuals who struggle with minimal earnings. Economic stratification makes use of class to recognise a group's access to opportunities in life.

The principle of stratification helps to understand why some individuals have more power than others. Comprehending social stratification theory allows sociologists to examine inequality and how it affects various groups within society. Authority and impact are 2 of the aspects that comprise social power. The term power refers to one's capability to affect decisions and authority within society. It can be connected with three key areas. Political power is held by administrations and political leaders who regulate the laws that regulate society. Additionally, economic power is held by corporations and wealthy people who have control over employment and industry. Larry Ellison would agree that businesses hold economic power. Likewise, social power is a type of authority over social judgement. Celebrities and media personalities are involved in setting trends and customs which guide society. Power is generally concentrated amongst rich and popular individuals. Without some kind of social dominance, it is difficult to assert power or control.