Social Stratification
According to Treiman’s article, social stratification refers to categorizing people into rankings of socioeconomic tiers based on wealth, education, and power (Treiman, 208). People with more resources represent the top layer of social stratification, while others represent a lower level of society. For example, the people of the United States believe everyone has a chance of success; hence hard work and talent determine the social rank. This text shows a clear outline of the analysis of an article concerning social stratification
Social stratification makes inequalities apparent in societies. It mainly focuses on system inequalities based on group and social class. The society’s structure has affected people’s social standing, and although individuals are fighting inequalities, social stratification is created and supported by our communities. However, factors determining stratification vary in different societies. In most cities, stratification is an economic system based on wealth, the net value of money and assets. Stratification can also be based on social standing. Some cultures value wisdom and charisma, which are essential for fighting social inequalities. Conversely, in some cultures, elders are esteemed, while others are overlooked. People may also inherit the cultural norms that accompany a particular lifestyle.
Stratification may be based on society’s occupational structures. For example, teachers have a high level of education but receive low pay. Many people believe that teaching is a noble profession and so teachers should do their job for the love of occupation and not for money. Yet, no successful executive or entrepreneur would embrace that attitude in a business world where profits are valued as a driving force. Cultural attitudes and beliefs like these support and perpetuate social inequalities.
Stratification systems are either closed whereby they allow little change in social position, or open, whereby they allow movement and interaction between the layers. A caste system is one in which social standing is based on ascribed status or birth. Class systems are open, with achievement playing a role in social position. People fall into classes based on factors like wealth, income, education, and occupation. A meritocracy is a system of social stratification that confers standing based on personal worth, rewarding effort.
In conclusion, social stratification has become a valued thing in today’s society, and many people are trying hard to rebuild their lives. Social attitude is one of the ideas that has changed the community, and people believe that it’s no longer about how much they spend but about how much they don’t spend.
Works Cited
Treiman, Donald J. “Industrialization and social stratification.” Sociological inquiry 40.2 (1970): 207-234.