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Questions and Answers
What is the primary basis of social stratification in a class system?
What is the primary basis of social stratification in a class system?
What is a characteristic of a caste system?
What is a characteristic of a caste system?
What is the term for the ability of individuals or groups to move up or down the social hierarchy?
What is the term for the ability of individuals or groups to move up or down the social hierarchy?
What is the type of inequality that refers to the unequal distribution of resources, opportunities, and rewards among individuals or groups?
What is the type of inequality that refers to the unequal distribution of resources, opportunities, and rewards among individuals or groups?
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What is the process of achieving a certain social status or position?
What is the process of achieving a certain social status or position?
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According to the functionalist theory, what is the key factor in status attainment?
According to the functionalist theory, what is the key factor in status attainment?
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Study Notes
Social Stratification
Class Systems
- Based on economic factors such as wealth, income, and occupation
- Typically divided into three main classes: upper, middle, and lower
- Classes are not rigidly defined and can be fluid
- Examples: capitalist societies such as the United States, UK, and Canada
Caste Systems
- Based on ascribed status, birth, and family lineage
- Rigid and hereditary, with limited social mobility
- Often associated with religious or cultural beliefs
- Examples: traditional Indian society, feudal Japan, and some African societies
Social Mobility
- The ability of individuals or groups to move up or down the social hierarchy
- Can be vertical (up or down) or horizontal (across)
- Factors influencing social mobility: education, occupation, family background, and social connections
- Types of social mobility: intragenerational (within a lifetime) and intergenerational (between generations)
Inequality
- The unequal distribution of resources, opportunities, and rewards among individuals or groups
- Types of inequality: economic, social, political, and cultural
- Factors contributing to inequality: discrimination, access to education, wealth, and social networks
- Consequences of inequality: social unrest, poverty, and reduced economic growth
Status Attainment
- The process of achieving a certain social status or position
- Factors influencing status attainment: education, occupation, family background, and social connections
- Theories of status attainment:
- Functionalism: emphasizes the importance of education and socialization
- Conflict theory: emphasizes the role of power and inequality
- Symbolic interactionism: emphasizes the role of social interactions and relationships
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Description
This quiz covers the basics of social stratification, including class systems, caste systems, social mobility, inequality, and status attainment. Learn about the different types of social systems, factors influencing social mobility, and the consequences of inequality.
