Sociology Chapter 7 Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What are some similarities of the caste and class system?

Based on education and wealth (correct)

Closed system of social stratification

Both are types of social stratification (correct)

Based on occupation (correct)

What are some differences of the caste and class system?

Both are closed systems of social stratification

Caste systems are prevalent in agrarian societies (correct)

Class systems use hereditary groups

Social mobility is possible in class systems (correct)

Define horizontal mobility.

Movement from one position to another within the same social level.

Define vertical mobility.

Movement from one level on the social hierarchy to another. Signup and view all the answers

Define 'pink collar'.

Low-paying, nonmanual, semiskilled positions primarily held by women. Signup and view all the answers

Define relative poverty.

Poverty exists when people can afford basic necessities but cannot maintain an average standard of living. Signup and view all the answers

Define absolute poverty.

Poverty exists when people do not have the means to secure the most basic necessities of life. Signup and view all the answers

What are Marx's theories on class and inequality?

An individual's position in the class hierarchy is determined by their role in the production process. Signup and view all the answers

What are Weber's theories on class and inequality?

The three-component theory of stratification involves class, status, and power as distinct ideal types. Signup and view all the answers

What are the key concepts of Diana Pearce's work on poverty?

Women represent disproportionate percentages of the world's poor. Signup and view all the answers

What is the functionalist's point of view on social class and social mobility?

Some degree of social inequality is necessary for the smooth functioning of society. Signup and view all the answers

What is the conflict theorist's point of view on social class and social mobility?

Powerful individuals and groups use ideology to maintain their favored positions at the expense of others. Signup and view all the answers

What is the symbolic interactionist's point of view on social class and social mobility?

The beliefs and actions of people reflect their class location in society. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Caste and Class Systems

Both systems are forms of social stratification.
Caste system is hereditary, primarily observed in India, whereas class system is based on occupation, education, and wealth.
Class systems allow for social mobility through education and opportunities, while caste systems are closed and restrict mobility.

Mobility Definitions

Horizontal mobility: Movement within the same social level, such as changing jobs without a change in status.
Vertical mobility: Movement between different levels of the social hierarchy, indicating a change in social status.

Economic Changes and Poverty

Pink collar jobs: Low-paying, nonmanual, semiskilled positions predominantly held by women, including roles like daycare workers and cashiers.
Relative poverty: Exists when basic necessities can be afforded, but individuals cannot maintain an average standard of living.
Absolute poverty: Occurs when individuals lack means to secure basic life necessities.

Theories of Class and Inequality

Marx's theory: Class position is determined by one's role in the production process, influencing political and ideological consciousness.
Weber's theory: Introduces a three-component model of stratification, identifying class, status, and power as distinct elements.

Diana Pearce's work: Highlights that women constitute a disproportionate percentage of the global poor.
Functionalist perspective: Argues that some social inequality is essential for society's functioning, ensuring important positions are filled.
Conflict theorist perspective: Suggests that power dynamics enable certain groups to maintain their social position, arguing wealth is not essential for motivation.
Symbolic interactionist perspective: Posits that individuals' beliefs and actions reflect their social class position and status.

Description

Explore the complexities of caste and class systems with these flashcards. This quiz delves into their similarities, differences, and the concept of social stratification. Perfect for students looking to enhance their understanding of social structures.

Sociology Chapter 7 Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What are some similarities of the caste and class system?