Social Stratification

• What is stratification?

  The way in which ppl are organised in a hierarchy in society
• What is social stratification?

  The system society uses to rank categories of ppl who have more status/wealth/power than others
• What 4 points is social stratification based on?

  1. Stratification is a t____ of society
  2. It persists over g__________
  3. It's u________ BUT variable
  4. It also includes society's b______ as well as inequality
  5. Stratification is a trait of society
  6. It persists over gens
  7. It's universal BUT variable
  8. It also includes society's beliefs as well as inequality
• Define 'social inequality':

  The unequal distribution of power, status, wealth + income
• Which duo of sociologists argue that social stratification is beneficial for society? (HINT: D&M)

  Davis & Moore
• Why do Davis & Moore think stratification is +ve for society?

  The hardest jobs are the most necessary (e.g. doctors) so they have the highest rewards to attract the most capable ppl
• WWhy did Marx argue that social stratification wasn't +ve?

  Benefits the bourgeoisie at the expense of the proletariat = it's the product of oppression

  They get surplus profits whilst the WC have to struggle on low wages
• What 4 systems of stratification are there in human societies?

  Ascribed - achieved

  Open - closed
• What is an 'ascribed' social position?

  It's fixed @ birth, inherited
• What is an 'achieved' social position?

  Earned on the basis of merit
• What is an 'open' social system?

  Allows social mobility
• What is a 'closed' social system?

  Unable to change status