Study Guide for Chapter 9: Social Stratification

This study guide outlines key concepts related to social stratification, providing a comprehensive overview of the subject.

Learning Objectives

1. Differentiate between open and closed stratification systems.
2. Distinguish between caste and class systems.
3. Explain why meritocracy is considered an ideal system of stratification.

1. Introduction to Social Stratification

• Definition: Social stratification refers to the hierarchical arrangement of individuals in a society based on wealth, income, education, family background, and power.
• Layers of Stratification: Similar to geological strata, where those with more resources occupy higher layers.
• Socioeconomic Status (SES): Determined by an individual's income, education, and occupation.

2. Key Concepts of Stratification

• American Belief in Equality: Cultural belief in the U.S. that everyone can succeed through hard work ("American Dream").
• Social Inequalities: Stratification creates structural inequalities, with groups sharing backgrounds occupying similar social standings.

3. Factors Influencing Social Standing

• Wealth and Income: Economic resources.
• Cultural Values: Prestige and respect, e.g., for elders.
• Family Influence: Social positions often inherited, perpetuating inequalities.
• Occupational Structure: High education jobs may have low pay but are respected.

4. Systems of Stratification

• Closed Systems: Little to no mobility; includes estate, slavery, caste systems.
  • Characteristics: Fixed positions by birth, limited cross-level relationships.
• Open Systems: Allow social mobility through achievements.
  • Characteristics: Mobility possible through individual efforts.

5. Caste System vs. Class System

• Caste System (Closed System):
  • Definition: Hereditary status by birth.
  • Examples: Traditional Hindu caste system.
  • Ideology: Beliefs of fate and destiny.
• Class System (Open System):
  • Definition: Status influenced by social factors and achievements.
  • Mobility: Allows for movement.
  • Marriage Patterns: Exogamous (across classes) and endogamous (within class).

6. Meritocracy

• Definition: Stratification based on effort and merit.
• Characteristics: No society fully meritocratic; seen in job/academic achievements.
• Importance: Values personal achievement over background.

7. Status Consistency

• Definition: Alignment of social factors like education and income.
• High Status Consistency: In closed systems with fixed positions.
• Low Status Consistency: In open systems, allowing for social mobility.
• Example: Career path of Serena from graduate to business owner.

8. Case Study: Meghan Markle and Prince Harry

• Context: Markle's transition from actress to royal status through marriage.
• Implications: Illustrates crossing class boundaries and social pressures.

Key Terms for Review

• Social Stratification
• Socioeconomic Status (SES)
• Open vs. Closed Stratification Systems
• Caste System
• Class System
• Exogamous vs. Endogamous Marriage
• Meritocracy
• Status Consistency

Study Tips

• Conceptual Comparison: Use a table to differentiate caste and class systems.
• Real-World Examples: Consider modern examples of mobility and status inconsistency.
• Reflection Questions:
  • How does the American Dream reflect or challenge social stratification?
  • Why might meritocracy be an ideal rather than a practical system?