Sociology Chapter on Social Stratification

A system where individuals are categorized based on factors like wealth, income, education, race, and power, creating a social hierarchy. Think of it like layers of geology, with different groups occupying different positions.

A closed system of social stratification where individuals are born into their social standing and remain there throughout their lives. It is based on ascription, meaning social position is determined at birth.

An open system of social stratification where individuals can move between social positions based on their achievements. Social mobility is possible, allowing individuals to rise or fall based on their efforts and opportunities.

The factors that determine an individual's social standing, such as wealth, income, education, and family background.

The division of society based on gender roles, sexual orientations, and expectations, leading to inequalities in access to power, resources, and opportunities.

The division of society based on ethnicity and race, leading to inequalities in treatment, opportunities, and access to resources.

The division of society based on age, with different age groups experiencing varying levels of power, influence, and opportunities.

The division of society based on health and disability, leading to inequalities in access to resources, opportunities, and social inclusion.

A social system where individuals can move between different social classes based on their achievements and efforts.

A group of people sharing similar socioeconomic status, often characterized by wealth, income, education, and occupation.

Marriage between individuals from different social classes.

The movement of individuals or groups between different social positions within a society.

An idealized system where social standing is solely determined by individual merit and effort, regardless of background or social status.

The extent to which an individual's positions across various dimensions of social status (like income, education, and occupation) are consistent.

Disparities in access to resources, power, and opportunities based on social group membership, leading to unequal outcomes across society.

A nation with a strong economy, high level of industrialization, and powerful influence in global trade.

A nation with a weak economy, low industrialization, and a reliance on core nations for economic support.

Nation in a middle ground: not as dominant as core nations, but more industrialized than periphery nations.

The movement of capital (money and resources) from one nation to another.

Loss of industries and jobs as companies relocate to cheaper locations, often in peripheral nations.

A situation where a country owes a large amount of money to other countries or institutions.

The condition of lacking the most basic necessities for survival, such as food, water, shelter, and healthcare.

A situation where people can afford basic necessities but are unable to meet the average standard of living in their society.

The level of exposure to a variety of cultures and the amount of resources a person has for hobbies, vacations, and leisure activities.

The belief that different aspects of society have a purpose and contribute to its overall functioning. Social stratification, according to this perspective, ensures that the most important roles are filled by the most competent individuals.

A theory that criticizes social stratification, arguing that it benefits only a select few at the expense of the majority. It perpetuates inequality and creates conflict between social classes.

Focuses on how individuals interact based on their social standing. People tend to associate with others who share similar social backgrounds, influencing their daily experiences.

The global distribution of wealth, economic stability, status, and power across countries, reflecting worldwide patterns of social inequality.

The purchase and use of specific goods or services to express one's social status and make a statement about their wealth and position in the society.