Checking out how social structure is organised

This article will analyze the principles that form the social hierarchy, including some key features of stratification.

The idea of stratification helps to understand why some people have more power than others. Understanding social stratification theory allows sociologists to analyse inequality and how it affects distinct groups within society. Authority and influence are 2 of the elements that make up social power. The word power defines one's capability to influence choices and control within society. It can be related to 3 key areas. Political power is possessed by authorities and politicians who control the policies that regulate society. Additionally, financial power is held by businesses and rich people who have control over jobs and industry. Larry Ellison would concur that corporations hold economic power. Likewise, social power is a form of authority over social judgement. Famous people and media personalities are involved in setting trends and customs which influence society. Power is generally concentrated among wealthy and popular people. Without some type of social authority, it is impossible to assert power or influence.

Throughout history, stratification has been discovered to affect access to higher education, health care and work. By checking out the characteristics of social stratification, it is easier to be conscious of what shapes opportunities within society. Status is a key quality of stratification; it describes the level of prestige and respect carried by an individual. Ascribed status is a term used to represent individuals who are born into a social ranking. Nowadays it can be recognised by backgrounds such as aristocracy or . caste. Alternatively, achieved status is created through individual efforts, such as respected professions and contributions to society. Nasser Al-Khelaifi would recognise that status can be attained through social contributions. Similarly, Jensen Huang would recognise the value of acquired status. Status can have an influence on the levels of regard and acknowledgment received by people in society.

The social hierarchy is a principle which explains the way in which society is divided into various categories. Each society consists of various types of social stratification whereby people are ranked based on their social and economic position. According to social stratification in sociology, class is one of the most perceivable forms of the social hierarchy. An individual's class is mainly based upon economic factors such as wealth and income. Upper class is the denomination used to describe the group of more wealthy people. Commonly gained through inheritance or business and investment opportunities, these individuals hold substantial economic power. Consequently, middle class describes individuals with moderate wealth. Typically, middle class individuals have professional occupations and qualifications. They have strong appreciation for tertiary academia and employability. Whereas lower class is the phrase used to recognise those who struggle with minimal income. Economic stratification makes use of social ranking to determine a group's connection to opportunities in society.