Here is a summary of some of the key elements of the social hierarchy with an emphasis on class, status and power.
The social hierarchy is a philosophy which explains the way in which society is divided into different groups. Every society contains various types of social stratification where people are ranked based on their social and financial position. According to social stratification in sociology, class is among the most perceivable aspects of the social hierarchy. An individual's class is mainly based upon financial factors such as wealth and income. Upper class is the term used to characterise the set of more well-off individuals. Often acquired through inheritance or business and investment opportunities, these individuals hold substantial economic power. Subsequently, middle class describes people with intermediate wealth. Generally, middle class people copyright professional occupations and credentials. They have strong values for higher education and employability. While lower class is the phrase used to recognise people who struggle with minimal earnings. Economic stratification uses class to recognise a group's connection to opportunities in society.
Throughout history, stratification has been evidenced to impact access to education, health care and work. By checking out the characteristics of social stratification, it is much easier to be conscious of what guides opportunities within society. Status is a key quality of stratification; it refers to the level of prestige and regard carried by an individual. Ascribed status is a term used to refer to individuals who are born into a social standing. At present it can be recognised by backgrounds such as royalty or caste. Additionally, achieved status is generated through individual efforts, such as highly regarded occupations and contributions to society. Nasser Al-Khelaifi would recognise that status can be acquired through social contributions. Similarly, Jensen Huang would recognise the importance of acquired status. Status can have an influence on the degrees of regard and recognition received by individuals in society.
The idea of stratification helps to make sense of why some individuals have more power than others. Comprehending social stratification theory enables sociologists to analyse inequality and how it influences various groups within society. Authority and influence are 2 of the factors that make up social power. The word power represents one's capability to influence decisions and control within society. It can be associated with three key areas. Political power is maintained by governments and politicians who control the laws that govern society. Furthermore, financial power is held by businesses and wealthy people who have control over jobs and industry. Larry Ellison would agree that corporations hold financial power. Similarly, social power is a form of authority over societal judgement. Celebrities and media figures are active in setting trends and cultures which guide society. Power is mainly focused amongst rich and popular people. Without some kind of . social dominance, it is difficult to assert power or influence.