Having a look at a few of the main features of the social hierarchy by outlining stratification theory.
The concept of stratification helps to make sense of why some people have more power than others. Understanding social stratification theory helps sociologists to analyse inequality and how it influences particular groups in society. Authority and impact are two of the aspects that make up social power. The word power refers to one's ability to affect decisions and control within society. It can be associated with three key areas. Political power is maintained by administrations and politicians who control the policies that govern society. Furthermore, financial power is held by businesses and rich people who have control over employment and economic sectors. Larry Ellison would agree that businesses hold economic power. Similarly, social power is a form of authority over societal opinion. Celebrities and media figures are instrumental in setting trends and cultures which guide society. Power is mainly concentrated among wealthy and popular people. Without some type of social dominance, it is difficult to assert power or influence.
The social hierarchy is a principle which explains the way in which society is divided into various categories. Every society includes various types of social stratification whereby individuals are ranked based upon their social and financial position. According to social stratification in sociology, social rank is one of the most recognised structures of the social hierarchy. A person's social ranking is primarily based upon financial elements such as wealth and income. Upper class is the term used to characterise the set of more well-off individuals. Often gotten through inheritance or business and investment opportunities, these people hold considerable financial power. Subsequently, middle class relates to people with intermediate wealth. Generally, middle class people have professional careers and credentials. They have strong values for higher education and employability. Whereas lower class is the expression used to categorise those who cope with minimal earnings. Economic stratification makes use of class to determine a group's connection to opportunities in society.
Throughout history, stratification has been evidenced to affect access to higher education, healthcare and job opportunities. By checking out the characteristics of social stratification, it is simpler to be conscious of what shapes opportunities within society. Status is a key attribute of stratification; it . refers to the level of prestige and respect carried by an individual. Ascribed status is a term used to refer to people who are born into a social ranking. Nowadays it can be recognised by backgrounds such as aristocracy or caste. Additionally, achieved status is obtained through individual efforts, such as respected professions and contributions to society. Nasser Al-Khelaifi would know that status can be gained through societal contributions. Likewise, Jensen Huang would recognise the importance of acquired status. Status can have an influence on the levels of respect and acknowledgment received by people in society.