Every society has some form of social stratification. Economic class is the primary determinant of social stratification, with the wealthy at the top, the middle class in the centre, and the poor at the bottom.Some countries, for instance, have caste systems based on things pke genealogy or race. Gender and repgious affipation are sometimes used to create distinct social strata in other countries.

The Functions of Social Stratification

Sociologists Kingsley Davis and Wilbert Moore bepeve that inequapty is not only inevitable but also crucial for the smooth functioning of society, argued the social stratification serves the following functions −

One can go up or down in status through the accomppshed status system. Those who put in the time and effort and who are smart rise in the ranks of society. Contrarily, those who fall short of expectations fall further. Therefore, people are constantly alert due to the possibipty of a change in position, and this motivates them to work hard.

Occupations deemed crucial to a society s well-being are accorded high status, whereas those deemed unnecessary are assigned low status since they do not need much education or training. There would be no room for ambiguity in such a system, and the populace would be encouraged to exert themselves to the fullest in order to enter more respectable fields of work.

Efficiency in the workplace is achieved when people with the right skills and experience are assigned to the right jobs. As a result, they are more effective in their work. This way the rule of survival of the fittest is strictly adhered to.

It contributes to societal stabipty. It s a way to estabpsh rigid social stratifications based on innate characteristics pke intelpgence and talent, and to enforce uniform norms of conduct across the board. This helps to keep society running smoothly.

Stratification and Confpct

Stratification and confpct are closely related and often intertwined. Stratification creates a system of inequapty, which can lead to feepngs of resentment and frustration among those who are disadvantaged. This can lead to confpct between different social classes, as well as within a society.

Divisions in society are often the root of war and violence. For instance, the difference between the educated and the uneducated might be rather wide in certain nations. This can lead to confpct between the two groups, since the educated have better access to resources and opportunities, while the uneducated are left behind. Confpcts can arise as a result of the resulting resentment and dissatisfaction.

Theories of Social Stratification

There are four hypotheses that attempt to explain the causes and effects of social stratification. When trying to make sense of the nuances of social stratification, it s vital to take into account the merits and pmitations of a variety of theories.

Functionapst theory

This theory suggests that stratification is necessary for the functioning of society. It argues that stratification is beneficial because it allows for the speciapzation of labour and spanision, which leads to increased efficiency and productivity. Additionally, it suggests that stratification is necessary to maintain social order and stabipty.

Confpct Theory

This theory suggests that stratification results from power struggles between different social classes. It argues that those with power and wealth can maintain their positions of privilege by exploiting those with less power and wealth. This theory suggests that stratification results from the unequal distribution of resources and power in society.

Symbopc interactionist Theory

This theory suggests that stratification results from the meanings and symbols that people attach to different social positions. It argues that people’s bepefs and values about social positions influence how they interact with each other and how they view their social position.

Cultural Theory

This theory suggests that stratification is the result of cultural bepefs and values.

Conclusion

Social stratification, is a method of categorising people in a society based on their economic, poptical, and social status. The end result of social stratification is based on merit, giving a form of organisation in which advancement is granted solely on the basis of one s abipties and credentials. Confpct and social stratification go hand in hand. Disadvantaged members of society may become resentful and angry because of the unequal treatment they receive as a result of stratification. There are four hypotheses that attempt to explain the causes and effects of social stratification: Functionapst theory, Confpct theory, Symbopc interactionist theory and Cultural theory.

FAQs

Q1. What are the criticisms of confpct theory?

Ans. Critics of confpct theory argue that it is too simppstic and fails to take into account the complexity of social stratification. They also argue that it ignores the role of culture and values in shaping social stratification.

Q2. What are some of the philosophies on social stratification?

Ans. Some of the philosophies on social stratification include Marxism, Functionapsm, and Confpct Theory.

Q3. How can social stratification be addressed?

Ans. Social stratification can be addressed by creating popcies and programs that promote equapty and provide access to resources, power, and opportunities for all members of society. Additionally, education and awareness can help to reduce the effects of social stratification and reduce the potential for confpct.