Chapter 9: Social Stratification in the US

Social Stratification Overview

• Stratification systems are classified as closed (limited mobility) or open (allows movement)
• Caste systems are based on ascribed status; individuals remain in a social position for life
• Class systems are more flexible, with social position influenced by personal achievements
• Meritocracy is a system emphasizing personal merit and effort as key to social standing

Social Classes in the United States

• Three main social classes: upper, middle, and lower class
• Social mobility allows individuals to shift between classes
• Class traits or markers define behaviors, customs, and norms associated with each class

Global Stratification

• Global stratification assesses the relative wealth, stability, and power among countries
• Comparisons of income and productivity highlight global inequalities

Sociological Perspectives on Stratification

• Functionalism views stratification as necessary for societal functioning
• Conflict theory focuses on inequality and class conflict, particularly between the wealthy and workers
• Symbolic interactionism analyzes everyday interactions influenced by social class and status

Key Definitions in Stratification

• Caste system: Birth-based social status retained for life
• Class: A group sharing similar social status influenced by wealth, income, education, and occupation
• Class system: Social standing determined by a combination of social factors and individual accomplishments
• Class traits (class markers): Behaviors, customs, and norms typical of a particular social class
• Conspicuous consumption: Purchasing goods to signify social status
• Davis-Moore thesis: Proposes that some stratification is necessary for societal functioning

Mobility Concepts

• Downward mobility: Decrease in one's social class
• Endogamous marriages: Unions within the same social category
• Exogamous unions: Marriages between individuals from different social categories
• Intergenerational mobility: Social class differences across generations within a family
• Intragenerational mobility: Social class differences among individuals of the same generation
• Social mobility: The potential for individuals to change their social position
• Structural mobility: Changes in society that can elevate or reduce the social status of a whole group

Additional Important Terms

• Wealth: Accumulated assets of an individual or household
• Income: Earnings from work or investments
• Standard of living: Level of wealth and material comfort available to individuals or families
• Status consistency: Consistency of rank across social categories such as income and education
• Upward mobility: Increase in social class
• Social stratification: A system categorizing members of society into hierarchical groups based on wealth, power, and prestige