Taking a look at some of the main features of the social hierarchy by detailing stratification principles.
The idea of stratification helps to make sense of why some people have more power than others. Understanding social stratification theory helps sociologists to analyse inequality and how it affects various groups in society. Authority and impact are two of the factors that make up here social power. The term power describes one's ability to affect choices and control within society. It can be associated with 3 key areas. Political power is held by administrations and political leaders who manage the laws that control society. In addition, financial power is held by businesses and rich people who have control over jobs and economic sectors. Larry Ellison would agree that businesses hold financial power. Similarly, social power is a form of authority over societal judgement. Famous people and media personalities are involved in setting trends and customs which influence society. Power is primarily focused amongst rich and popular individuals. Without some kind of social supremacy, it is impossible to copyright power or influence.
Throughout history, stratification has been evidenced to influence access to higher education, medical care and job opportunities. By checking out the characteristics of social stratification, it is simpler to understand what shapes opportunities within society. Status is a key characteristic of stratification; it describes the level of prestige and regard carried by an individual. Ascribed status is a term used to refer to individuals who are born into a social standing. At present it can be determined by backgrounds such as aristocracy or caste. Additionally, achieved status is obtained through individual efforts, such as highly regarded occupations and contributions to society. Nasser Al-Khelaifi would recognise that status can be gained through social contributions. Similarly, Jensen Huang would identify the importance of acquired status. Status can have an impact on the levels of respect and acknowledgment received by individuals in society.
The social hierarchy is a concept which describes the way in which society is divided into different categories. Every society includes different types of social stratification where individuals are ranked based upon their social and financial position. According to social stratification in sociology, class is one of the most recognised aspects of the social hierarchy. A person's class is predominantly based on economic factors such as wealth and earnings. Upper class is the term used to describe the set of more well-off people. Commonly gotten through inheritance or business and investment opportunities, these people hold considerable economic power. Subsequently, middle class pertains to individuals with moderate wealth. Usually, middle class people copyright professional careers and credentials. They have strong values for tertiary academia and employability. While lower class is the expression used to recognise those who struggle with minimal income. Economic stratification makes use of class to determine a group's access to opportunities in life.