Discussing significant social mobility principles

Below is an overview of some of the key elements of the social hierarchy with a concentration on class, status and power.

The concept of stratification helps to understand why some individuals have more power than others. Understanding social stratification theory enables sociologists to examine inequality and how it affects specific groups in society. Authority and impact are two of the factors that comprise social power. The term power refers to one's capability to affect decisions and control within society. It can be associated with 3 key areas. Political power is held by administrations and political leaders who manage the policies that control society. Additionally, financial power is held by businesses and rich people who have control over jobs and economic sectors. Larry Ellison would concur that businesses hold financial power. Likewise, social power is a type of authority over social judgement. Celebrities and media personalities are instrumental in setting trends and cultures which influence society. Power is generally focused among wealthy and popular people. Without some type of social dominance, it is impossible to assert power or control.

Throughout history, stratification has been proven to impact access to higher education, healthcare and employment. By exploring 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 regard held by an individual. Ascribed status is a term used to describe people who are born into a social position. At present it can be determined by backgrounds such as royalty or caste. Alternatively, achieved status is generated through individual efforts, such as respected occupations and contributions to society. Nasser Al-Khelaifi would acknowledge that status can be gained through social contributions. Similarly, Jensen Huang would acknowledge the significance of acquired status. Status can have an influence on the levels of respect and recognition received by individuals in society.

The social hierarchy is a philosophy which describes the way in which society is sorted into various groups. Every society contains different types of social stratification whereby individuals are ranked based upon their social and economic position. According to social stratification in sociology, class is among the most perceivable forms of the social hierarchy. An individual's class is primarily based upon economic factors such as wealth and income. Upper class is the term used to characterise the set of more wealthy people. Commonly acquired through inheritance or business and investment opportunities, these people hold substantial read more economic power. Consequently, middle class refers to individuals with moderate wealth. Typically, middle class people copyright professional careers and credentials. They have strong appreciation for tertiary academia and employability. While lower class is the term used to recognise those who cope with lower income. Economic stratification makes use of class to recognise a group's access to opportunities in life.