SOCIAL STRATIFICATION

Define social stratification

The different social groups that makes up a particular society. It refers to a system whereby society ranks people in a hierarchy of classes (upper, middle and lower class) based on a criterion or a combination such as religion, colour, race, wealth, age, sex, gender, educational background and occupational background.

What are the two main types of social stratification

·       Open System Stratification (Class system)

·       Closed System Stratification (Caste system and Slavery)

list the characteristics of an open system of stratification

·       Social position is achieved through one’s own effort

·       The boundaries between classes are more flexible than with a closed system

·       They are based mainly on economic criteria, particular income

·       Social mobility is possible, as individuals can move up or down the social ladder, therefore status can either improve or decline

list the characteristics of a closed system of stratification

·       It is a rigid system with clearly defined boundaries

·       Social status is strictly defined and determines access to opportunities

·       Social position is determined at birth (ascribed)

·       Social mobility from one level to another is not possible

Define social mobility

The movement of individual or groups from one social position to another with the social stratification system of a society.

What are the two main types of mobility?

Vertical and Horizontal Mobility

What are the two types of vertical mobility?

Vertical upward and vertical downward mobility

What are the factors of vertical upwards mobility

What are the factors of vertical downwards mobility

What is horizontal mobility

Movement from one position to another within the same stratum.