Question

Name the elements of social stratification.

Answer 1

Types of Social Stratification:

Social stratification is based upon a variety of principles. So we find different type of stratification.

The major types of stratification are

(i) Caste

(ii) Class

(iii) Estate

(iv) Slavery

(i) Caste is a hereditary endogamous social group in which a person’s rank and its accompanying rights and obligations are ascribed on the basis of his birth into a particular group. For example-Brahmins, Kshyatryas, Vaishyas and Sudra Caste.

(ii) Class-Stratification on the basis of class is dominant in modern society. In this, a person’s position depends to a very great extent upon achievement and his ability to use to advantage the inborn characteristics and wealth that he may possess.

(iii) Estate system of medieval Europe provides another system of stratification which gave much emphasis to birth as well as to wealth and possessions. Each estate had a state.

(iv) Slavery had economic basis. In slavery, every slave had his master to whom he was subjected. The master’s power over the slave was unlimited.

Characteristics of Social Stratification:

On the basis of the analysis of the different definitions given by eminent scholars, social stratification may have the following characteristics.

Answer 2

Explanation:

Social stratification is where members o the society are socially differentiated based on their wealth and social status. The elements of social stratification are;

1. Social classes-The social positions are determined and separated from one another by being associated with a set of rights and responsible.
2. Ranking- The social classes are then ranked based on skill, ability, and other qualities. Hence, some are more important than others depending on more qualities one possesses.
3. Evaluation- After class positioning and ranking, evaluation is done to determine the social status of the person, then they are rewarded with certain advantages and rights over others.