social stratification
UNIT V – SOCIAL STRATIFICATION
5.1 Social Stratification: Introduction and Characteristics
Introduction
Social stratification is a fundamental concept in sociology. It refers to the systematic arrangement of individuals and groups in society into different layers or strata based on wealth, power, prestige, caste, class, or status. Every society, from primitive to modern, shows some form of stratification.
Meaning of Social Stratification
Social stratification means the division of society into hierarchical layers where individuals and groups are ranked as superior, inferior, or equal according to socially accepted values.
Definitions
- Ogburn and Nimkoff: Social stratification is the process by which individuals and groups are ranked in a more or less enduring hierarchy of status.
- Gisbert: Social stratification is the division of society into permanent groups or categories linked with each other by the relationship of superiority and subordination.
- Williams: Social stratification refers to the ranking of individuals on a scale of superiority, inferiority, and equality.
- Melvin M. Tumin: Social stratification is the arrangement of any social group or society into a hierarchy of positions that are unequal in terms of power, property, and social evaluation.
Characteristics of Social Stratification
- Universal – No society is free from stratification.
- Social in nature – It is created by society, not biology.
- Ancient system – Exists from early societies.
- Persists over generations – Status is often inherited.
- Exists in diverse forms – Caste, class, estate, slavery.
- Consequential – Affects life chances and lifestyle.
5.2 Functions of Social Stratification
Social stratification performs several functions in society.
- Encourages hard work – Motivates individuals to achieve higher status.
- Ensures circulation of elites – Talented individuals move to top positions.
- Serves economic function – Ensures proper use of skills and talents.
- Prevents waste of resources – Allocates resources efficiently.
- Stabilizes society – Reinforces norms and values.
- Helps pursue different professions – Division of labour becomes possible.
- Social control – Maintains order through accepted hierarchy.
5.3 Forms of Social Stratification: Slavery, Estate and Caste System
Slavery
Slavery is the most extreme form of social inequality where individuals are treated as property.
- Found in ancient Greece, Rome, and the USA.
- Slaves had no rights or freedom.
Estate System
The estate system existed in medieval Europe.
- Society divided into three estates: clergy, nobility, and commoners.
- Status was fixed by law and tradition.
Caste System
The caste system is a rigid form of stratification based on birth.
- Found mainly in India.
- Occupation and social status are hereditary.
- Restricted social mobility.
5.4 Positive and Negative Impact of Caste System in Society
Positive Impacts
- Social order and stability.
- Division of labour.
- Preservation of culture.
Negative Impacts
- Social inequality and discrimination.
- Restriction on mobility.
- Untouchability and social exclusion.
5.5 Class System and Status
Class System
Class is a form of open stratification based on wealth, income, and occupation.
- More flexible than caste.
- Found in modern societies.
Status
Status refers to the social position of an individual in society.
- Ascribed status – Given by birth.
- Achieved status – Earned through effort.
5.6 Social Mobility: Meaning and Types
Social mobility refers to the movement of individuals or groups from one social position to another.
Types of Social Mobility
- Vertical mobility – Upward or downward movement.
- Horizontal mobility – Movement within the same level.
- Intergenerational mobility – Between generations.
- Intragenerational mobility – Within the same generation.
5.7 Race: Concept and Criteria of Racial Classification
Concept of Race
Race refers to a group of people distinguished by physical characteristics such as skin colour, hair type, and facial features.
Criteria of Racial Classification
- Skin colour
- Hair form
- Shape of nose
- Head form
5.8 Influence of Class, Caste and Race System on Health
- Lower classes have limited access to healthcare.
- Caste discrimination affects nutrition and sanitation.
- Racial inequality leads to health disparities.
- Social status influences mental and physical health.
Conclusion
Social stratification is a universal and enduring feature of society. Though it helps in organization and stability, it also creates inequality. Modern societies aim to reduce its negative effects through education, law, and social reform.
References
- NCERT Sociology Textbook
- Applied Sociology for Nurses
- IGNOU Sociology Material
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