Question
Download Solution PDFWhich of the following is NOT one of the key principles of social stratification ?
Answer (Detailed Solution Below)
Option 4 : Social stratification is a characteristic of individuals, not society.
Detailed Solution
Download Solution PDFThe correct answer is - Social stratification is a characteristic of individuals, not society.
Key Points
- Social stratification is a characteristic of society
- It refers to a structured system where people are ranked in a hierarchy based on factors such as class, caste, gender, and race.
- It is not based on individual characteristics but is a system imposed by society.
- Example: The caste system in India is a society-wide structure that impacts opportunities and access to resources.
- Other correct principles of social stratification
- Persistence across generations: Social positions and advantages/disadvantages are often inherited.
- Supported by ideologies: Beliefs and norms justify the hierarchy, making it seem natural or fair.
- Unequal distribution of resources: Wealth, power, and privileges are distributed unevenly among social groups.
Additional Information
- Types of Social Stratification
- Caste System: A rigid hereditary system, e.g., India's caste hierarchy.
- Class System: Based on wealth and occupation, e.g., upper, middle, and lower class.
- Slavery: A historical system where people were owned as property.
- Estate System: Found in feudal societies, dividing people into nobles, clergy, and commoners.
- Effects of Social Stratification
- Impacts access to education, healthcare, and employment.
- Creates social inequality and economic disparities.
- Can lead to social movements and demands for equal rights.
- Modern Examples of Stratification
- Gender pay gap: Women often earn less than men for the same work.
- Racial discrimination: Some ethnic groups have limited access to resources.
- Economic inequality: The richest 1% control a significant portion of global wealth.