Social Stratification and Inequality: Key Concepts

What is social stratification?

The ranking of categories of people in a vertical hierarchy, leading to unequal treatment.

What are the dimensions on which society stratifies?

Society stratifies on multiple dimensions including class, race, gender, and more.

What is social mobility?

The ability to move up or down the social class.

What is the definition of class in social stratification?

A standing in the community based on money and economic status.

What is the caste system?

A system where status is inherited at birth.

Why is stratification considered necessary?

It ensures that important social positions are well rewarded and filled by the most competent people.

What does social class refer to?

A collection of people who rank closely to one another in wealth, power, or prestige.

What is status inconsistency according to Lensk?

It is problematic because individuals want to maximize their own social standing.

What is the Weberian view on social stratification?

It emphasizes the importance of class, status, and party in understanding social hierarchy.

What are the four social classes identified by Karl Marx?

Capitalist (1%), Upper middle (14%), Middle (30%), and others.

What is the difference between sex and gender?

Sex is biological identity, while gender is a social identity and construct.

What is gender polarization?

The view that men and women are opposites.

What is androgyny?

The integration of typical masculine and feminine traits in an individual.

What does gender segregation refer to?

The pattern where women and men are situated differently in the labor force.

What are some inequalities of sex and gender?

Inequalities exist in employment, earnings, education, politics, and domestic chores.

What is patriarchy?

A social system where men dominate society.

How does socialization contribute to gender inequality?

Through influences from media, peers, religion, and social norms.

What is symbolic interactionism in the context of gender?

It suggests that language can perpetuate male dominance by trivializing or ignoring women.

What are the four waves of feminism?

1st wave - suffrage (1920), 2nd wave - pro-choice (1960s), 3rd wave - sexual harassment, 4th wave - intersectionality and internet activism.

What is race as a social construct?

Race is not based on biological differences but is defined by social perceptions.

What is racial formation?

The process of creating racial and ethnic categories.

What are some theories of racial/ethnic inequality?

Conflict theory, symbolic interactionism, and bias theories.

What is institutional racism?

Customary ways in which societal institutions operate to keep persons of color in subordinate positions.

What can be done to address racial inequalities?

Implement DEI initiatives, institutional reforms, social/political action, and recognize personal biases.