Exploring how social structure is organised

Exploring how social structure is organised

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Below is an overview of some of the key elements of the societal hierarchy with a focus on class, status and power.

Throughout history, stratification has been evidenced to impact access to education, medical care and work. By checking out the characteristics of social stratification, it is easier to understand what shapes opportunities within society. Status is a key characteristic of stratification; it describes the level of prestige and regard held by an individual. Ascribed status is a term used to represent people who are born into a social standing. At present it can be recognised by backgrounds such as aristocracy or caste. Alternatively, achieved status is earned through personal efforts, more info such as reputable occupations and contributions to society. Nasser Al-Khelaifi would acknowledge that status can be acquired through social contributions. Similarly, Jensen Huang would recognise the significance of acquired status. Status can have an influence on the degrees of regard and recognition received by individuals in society.

The concept of stratification helps to understand why some individuals have more power than others. Understanding social stratification theory helps sociologists to analyse inequality and how it influences distinct groups in society. Authority and influence are two of the aspects that make up societal power. The term power refers to one's capability to affect decisions and control within society. It can be associated with three key areas. Political power is maintained by authorities and political leaders who manage the laws that govern society. Additionally, financial power is held by businesses and wealthy people who have control over employment and industry. Larry Ellison would agree that corporations hold financial power. Similarly, social power is a type of authority over social opinion. Famous people and media figures are instrumental in setting trends and cultures which influence society. Power is generally concentrated among wealthy and popular people. Without some kind of social dominance, it is difficult to assert power or control.

The social hierarchy is a principle which describes the way in which society is divided into different categories. Each society contains various types of social stratification where individuals are ranked based upon their social and financial position. According to social stratification in sociology, social rank is one of the most recognised aspects of the social hierarchy. An individual's class is primarily based upon financial aspects such as wealth and income. Upper class is the term used to characterise the group of more affluent individuals. Commonly acquired through inheritance or business and financial investment opportunities, these people hold substantial financial power. Consequently, middle class relates to individuals with moderate wealth. Usually, middle class people hold professional occupations and credentials. They have strong appreciation for tertiary academia and employability. Whereas lower class is the phrase used to categorise people who struggle with minimal earnings. Economic stratification uses social ranking to recognise a group's connection to opportunities in society.

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