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Questions and Answers
Based on the caste system in India, the Harijans are the highest rank in their caste system.
False
A division of society into categories, ranks, or classes is called social stratification.
True
A division that is based on individual characteristics, abilities, and behaviors does not lead to social inequality.
False
There are five basic types of stratification.
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Wealth, power, and prestige define a social class.
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Scarce resources and social rewards are not the basis of ascribed statuses.
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The owners of the means of production in a capitalist society are known as the proletariat.
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The division of society into categories, ranks, or classes is called __________.
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What is marriage outside one's own social category commonly called?
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What is social stratification?
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What is social inequality?
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What is a caste system?
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What is a class system?
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What defines a social class?
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What is wealth in the context of social stratification?
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What is power?
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What is prestige?
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What is socioeconomic status?
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Study Notes
Social Stratification Overview
- Social stratification refers to the division of society into categories, ranks, or classes based on unequal access to resources and social rewards.
- Wealth, power, and prestige are essential components that define an individual’s social class.
Caste and Class Systems
- The caste system distributes resources and rewards based on ascribed statuses, which are predetermined characteristics (e.g., birth, ethnicity).
- The class system evaluates individuals based on achieved statuses, which are based on personal accomplishments and efforts.
Key Definitions
- Social inequality: The uneven distribution of social rewards and resources among individuals and groups.
- Social class: A collective grouping of individuals who share similar levels of wealth, power, and prestige.
Components of Stratification
- Wealth: Encompasses the total value of owned assets and income from salaries and wages, marking it as a clear dimension of stratification.
- Power: The capacity to influence or control others' behaviors, regardless of their consent.
- Prestige: The regard, honor, or recognition individuals receive from their community or society.
Additional Concepts
- Socioeconomic status (SES): A composite measure that combines social factors (education, occupation) with economic factors (income) to rank individuals within a stratification system.
- Exogamy: The practice of marrying outside one’s own social category, influencing social mobility and interactions.
Misconceptions and Clarifications
- The claim that the Harijans hold the highest rank in India’s caste system is false; they are traditionally considered lower in the hierarchy.
- There is no definitive number of types of stratification; this notion is also inaccurate.
- Scarce resources and social rewards are indeed foundational to understanding ascribed statuses, contradicting claims suggesting otherwise.
Important Entities
- Proletariat: Refers to workers or the laboring class, specifically in capitalist societies, distinct from those who own the means of production (the bourgeoisie).
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Description
Test your knowledge on systems of stratification, including the caste system in India and social stratification concepts. This quiz will challenge your understanding of societal divisions and individual characteristics. See how well you grasp these critical sociological concepts!