Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Social stratification, a pervasive feature of human societies, refers to the hierarchical arrangement of individuals and groups based on unequal access to resources, power, and prestige. It's not merely about differences; it's about structured inequalities that are often passed down through generations. While egalitarian societies exist, most societies exhibit some form of stratification, ranging from simple caste systems to complex class structures. The concept, first explored by scholars like Max Weber and Karl Marx, continues to be relevant in understanding contemporary social issues, particularly in the context of widening income gaps and persistent inequalities observed globally. This answer will examine the bases of social stratification, illustrating them with relevant examples.
Defining Social Stratification
Social stratification isn't simply about individual differences; it's about structured inequality. It’s a system where people are ranked, and these rankings influence their life chances. This ranking can be based on various factors and is often reinforced by cultural beliefs and social institutions.
Bases of Social Stratification
1. Ascribed Status
Ascribed status is a social position assigned at birth or involuntarily received. It's a key basis for stratification, often difficult to change.
- Caste System (India): Historically, the caste system in India, codified in ancient texts like the *Manusmriti*, assigned individuals to hereditary groups with restricted occupations and social interactions. The varna system (Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, Shudras) dictated social hierarchy, with Brahmins at the top and Shudras at the bottom. Though legally abolished in 1950, its influence persists in many regions.
- Race and Ethnicity (United States): Historically, racial classifications and ethnic identities have been used to justify discrimination and unequal access to resources. The legacy of slavery and Jim Crow laws in the US demonstrates how ascribed characteristics can lead to systemic inequality.
- Sex and Gender (Globally): Patriarchal societies often ascribe women with lower status than men, limiting their access to education, employment, and political power.
2. Achieved Status
Achieved status is a social position obtained through individual effort and choice. While theoretically offering more mobility, achieved status can still be influenced by ascribed factors.
- Education (Globally): Higher levels of education often correlate with higher income and social status. However, access to quality education is often unequal, reflecting pre-existing inequalities based on family background and location.
- Occupation (United States): Certain professions, like medicine and law, are highly valued and command high salaries, contributing to social stratification.
- Meritocracy (Theoretical Ideal): While the concept of meritocracy – social status based solely on individual merit – is often invoked, it's rarely fully realized due to the influence of ascribed factors.
3. Economic Factors
Economic resources, including wealth, income, and property, are fundamental bases of social stratification.
- Wealth Inequality (Global): Oxfam's reports consistently highlight extreme wealth inequality globally. In 2023, the world’s richest 1% owned nearly two-thirds of the total global wealth.
- Income Disparity (India): According to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2022-23, the share of the top 10% in total consumption expenditure has increased, while the share of the bottom 50% has decreased, indicating growing income disparity.
- Land Ownership (Historically and Presently): Unequal land distribution has historically been a major source of inequality and continues to be a significant factor in many agrarian societies.
4. Power and Political Influence
Access to political power and influence significantly shapes social stratification. Those with power can influence policies and laws that benefit their position.
- Lobbying and Political Donations (United States): Wealthy individuals and corporations can exert influence on political decisions through lobbying and campaign donations, perpetuating inequalities.
- Patronage Networks (Developing Countries): In some developing countries, patronage networks and corruption can concentrate power and resources in the hands of a few, reinforcing social hierarchies.
5. Intersectionality of Factors
It is crucial to recognize that these bases of stratification often intersect and reinforce each other. For example, a woman of color from a low-income background faces compounded disadvantages compared to a white man from a wealthy family.
Cultural and Ideological Justifications
Social stratification is rarely accepted passively. Cultural beliefs and ideologies often justify existing inequalities, making them seem natural or inevitable. These can include religious doctrines, traditional customs, and dominant narratives that reinforce hierarchical social structures.
| Basis of Stratification | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Ascribed Status | Status assigned at birth | Caste system in India |
| Achieved Status | Status earned through effort | Professional occupation |
| Economic Factors | Unequal distribution of wealth | Wealth inequality globally |
| Power & Influence | Control over political decisions | Lobbying in the US |
Conclusion
Social stratification is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon rooted in a combination of ascribed, achieved, and economic factors. While societies strive for greater equality, entrenched inequalities persist, often reinforced by cultural beliefs and power structures. Addressing social stratification requires a multi-pronged approach that tackles systemic discrimination, promotes equal opportunity, and challenges ideologies that justify inequality. The pursuit of a more equitable society demands a continuous critical examination of the structures and beliefs that perpetuate social hierarchies.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.