Questions and Answers
What is social stratification?
Social stratification is the hierarchical ranking of members of a society.
What is the difference between a caste and social class system of social stratification?
In a caste system, social position is based on ascription (birth), and there is little to no social mobility. In a social class system, social position is based on personal effort, and social mobility is possible.
What is a meritocracy?
Meritocracy is a system of stratification based on ascription and effort.
What is social mobility?
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What is structural social mobility?
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Explain the Davis Moore thesis.
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What are the major criticisms of the Davis Moore thesis?
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How does the conflict perspective explain social stratification?
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What are the basic differences between Marx and Weber's concept of social stratification?
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What are blue collar and white collar occupations?
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What is SES?
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How does the symbolic interaction perspective explain social stratification?
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What is conspicuous consumption?
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Study Notes
Social Stratification
- Hierarchical ranking of individuals within a society.
- Influences access to resources, power, and opportunities.
Caste vs. Social Class System
- Caste system: social position based on birth (ascription); limited mobility.
- Social class system: social position based on personal effort; allows for mobility.
Meritocracy
- Stratification system blending ascription and effort.
- Rewards based on individual achievements and capabilities.
Social Mobility
- Represents individuals' movement in social class hierarchy, which can be upward or downward.
Structural Social Mobility
- Mobility that results from societal changes affecting the structure rather than personal attributes.
- Linked to the overall social class system in a society.
Davis-Moore Thesis
- Proposes that more vital societal roles receive greater rewards (salary, prestige, etc.).
- Asserts that fitting rewards encourage individuals to pursue and excel in important jobs.
- Suggests that unequal rewards ultimately benefit society by promoting effective function.
Criticisms of the Davis-Moore Thesis
- Difficulty in assessing occupational importance.
- Questionable correlation between rewards and actual societal contributions.
- Overlooks talent development influenced by social class position.
- Places excessive emphasis on high-paying roles.
- Neglects the role of social inequality in fostering conflict.
Conflict Perspective on Social Stratification
- Views stratification as a division that serves the interests of certain groups at the expense of others.
- Suggests social position mirrors resource distribution within society.
Marx vs. Weber on Social Stratification
- Marx: Class structure is perpetuated through generations; wealth begets wealth.
- Weber: Identifies three dimensions of inequality (class, status, power); sees stratification as multidimensional rather than simply hierarchical.
Blue Collar vs. White Collar Occupations
- Blue collar: Involves manual, industrial, and factory work.
- White collar: Encompasses office-based and business roles.
Socioeconomic Status (SES)
- A composite ranking reflecting disparities in wealth, education, and occupation.
Symbolic Interaction Perspective on Social Stratification
- People's social standings influence daily interactions and social networks.
- Consumption of products can signal one's social position to others.
Conspicuous Consumption
- Buying and using goods to showcase social status and affluence.
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Description
Test your knowledge of key concepts from Sociology Chapter 10 with these flashcards. Explore definitions and distinctions in social stratification, including the differences between caste and class systems. Perfect for revision and study purposes.
