W12.2 TANG YINI 탕이니

1.Summary 

Social stratification refers to the process by which society divides people into different groups based on socio-economic factors such as wealth, income, race, education, gender, and occupation. This stratification constitutes a hierarchy within groups, conferring different levels of privileges and social status to individuals. In modern Western societies, social classes are typically divided into upper, middle, and lower classes, with each class further subdivided into upper, middle, and lower segments. Social stratification can be based on kinship, caste, tribe, or a combination of multiple factors.

The existence of social stratification leads to various consequences, such as community stratification affecting access to mortgage opportunities. Sociological theories offer different explanations for this phenomenon. Functionalism posits that stratification contributes to social stability and order, while conflict theories like Marxism argue that it results in unequal access to resources and limited social mobility. Talcott Parsons emphasizes the role of universal values in maintaining social order, while Ralf Dahrendorf suggests that technological and educational demands have expanded the middle class.Marxism emphasizes that social class is determined by relations of production, whereas structural functionalism considers social inequality crucial for the smooth functioning of society. Max Weber proposed the three-component theory of stratification: class, status, and power, viewing these factors as independent yet related. C. Wright Mills introduced the elite theory, asserting that social power imbalances arise from a small group of power elites who maintain their positions through education and social networks.

In summary, social stratification is a complex system determined by multiple factors, significantly impacting societal operations and individual social status.

2.Interesting points 

Social stratification is not only based on wealth and income but also involves factors like race, education, gender, and occupation. This illustrates the complexity and diversity of social structures.

3.Questions 

How are social classes typically divided in modern Western societies?

Comments

  1. In modern Western societies, social classes are typically divided based on factors such as income, occupation, education, and wealth. While the specific criteria and terminology may vary, a common classification includes upper class, middle class, and lower class. The upper class consists of individuals with significant wealth, inherited privileges, and access to exclusive social networks, often including CEOs, business owners, and high-ranking professionals. The middle class encompasses a broad range of individuals with stable incomes, professional or white-collar jobs, and moderate levels of education, representing a diverse spectrum of occupations and lifestyles. The lower class comprises those with limited financial resources, lower-paying jobs, and fewer educational opportunities, including blue-collar workers, service industry employees, and individuals living in poverty. This stratification reflects disparities in access to resources, opportunities, and social privileges within contemporary Western societies.

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