Questions and Answers
What is a relatively fixed, hierarchical arrangement in society by which groups have uneven access to power, resources, and social rewards?
What is the difference between stratification and differentiation?
The Middle Ages European feudal societies are an example of a(n) ___ system of stratification.
In a caste system, one's place in the stratification system is an _____ status; in a class system, one's place in the stratification system is an _____ status.
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The position one holds in relation to the economic, political, social, and cultural resources in a society is called one's _____.
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Which of the following is false regarding social class?
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Weber called the opportunities that people have in common by virtue of belonging to a particular class _____.
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What do sociologists use to measure social class?
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What is the sociological term for the process by which people end up in any given position in the stratification system?
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In the United States, which statement is most accurate regarding social class?
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Wages earned, child support received, and interest payments are all examples of ______.
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Occupational prestige ratings are:
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In the United States, the upper class:
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Most of the wealth represented by the Forbes 400 list of the wealthiest people and families in the United States:
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The Parkers are in the upper class and earned all their wealth in the last year from a very successful business. The Parkers are considered part of the:
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Study Notes
Social Stratification
- Social stratification refers to a hierarchical organization in society where groups have unequal access to power, resources, and rewards.
- Unlike social differentiation, stratification is inherently unequal, whereas differentiation can exist without inequality.
Types of Stratification Systems
- European feudal societies during the Middle Ages demonstrate an estate system of stratification.
- In a caste system, a person's status is ascribed at birth, while in a class system, status is often achieved through individual effort and circumstances.
Social Class
- Social class is defined by an individual's economic, political, and cultural resource positions within society.
- Various factors, including education level, occupation, and income, are used to measure social class.
Life Chances
- Max Weber introduced the concept of life chances, which refers to the opportunities or advantages individuals have based on their social class.
Status Attainment
- Status attainment is the process through which individuals achieve a specific position in the social stratification system.
Mobility and Socioeconomic Status
- In the U.S., many individuals typically remain in the social class into which they are born.
- Although social mobility occurs, most people experience limited movement between social classes over their lifetimes.
Income and Wealth
- Income encompasses wages, child support, and interest payments earned by individuals.
- Occupational prestige involves subjective evaluations of job value, influencing perceived socioeconomic status.
Upper Class Dynamics
- The upper class consists of individuals who hold significant wealth and power, often inherited from previous generations along with newly wealthy individuals, termed nouveau riche.
- A large percentage of wealth among the wealthiest families in the U.S. is historically inherited rather than earned through individual accomplishments.
The Urban Underclass
- The urban underclass is characterized by unique challenges and conditions distinct from other lower-class groups, although specific details on these aspects are not provided in this summary.
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Description
Test your knowledge on key concepts from Chapter 8 of your sociology course with these flashcards. This quiz focuses on terms like social stratification and its differences compared to social differentiation. Perfect for students looking to reinforce their understanding of these essential topics.
