Study Guide for Chapter 9 Social Stratification
This study guide provides a comprehensive outline to help you understand and review the key concepts of social stratification.
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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.
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1. Introduction to Social Stratification
* Definition: Social stratification is the hierarchical arrangement of individuals in a society based on factors such as wealth, income, education, family background, and power.
* Layers of Stratification: Similar to geological strata, social stratification consists of layers, where those with more resources (wealth, power) occupy higher layers and those with fewer resources occupy lower layers.
* Socioeconomic Status (SES): An individual’s position within the social hierarchy, determined by income, education, and occupation.
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2. Key Concepts of Stratification
* American Belief in Equality: In the U.S., there is a cultural belief that everyone has an equal chance to succeed through hard work and self-effort, known as the “American Dream.”
* Social Inequalities: Sociologists see stratification as a system that shows structural inequalities, where groups with similar backgrounds often occupy similar social standings.
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3. Factors Influencing Social Standing
* Wealth and Income: Economic resources, including net assets and wages.
* Cultural Values: Prestige and respect in certain cultures (e.g., high regard for elders).
* Family Influence: Social positions are often passed from parents to children, which can perpetuate inequalities.
* Occupational Structure: Jobs that require high education (e.g., teachers) may have low pay but are respected, unlike some high-paying jobs.
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4. Systems of Stratification
* Closed Systems: Little to no social mobility; examples include estate, slavery, and caste systems.
* Characteristics: Positions are fixed at birth, and social relationships across levels are limited.
* Open Systems: Allow for social mobility and interactions between classes.
* Characteristics: Social mobility is possible through individual achievements and efforts.
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5. Caste System vs. Class System
* Caste System (Closed System):
* Definition: A hereditary system where one’s status is predetermined by birth.
* Examples: Traditional Hindu caste system in India, where occupation, marriage, and lifestyle are dictated by caste.
* Ideology: Based on beliefs of fate and destiny, limiting individual freedom.
* Class System (Open System):
* Definition: A system where social status is influenced by both social factors (like family background) and individual achievement.
* Mobility: Allows for upward and downward movement.
* Marriage Patterns: Includes both exogamous marriage (across classes) and endogamous marriage (within the same class).
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6. Meritocracy
* Definition: A theoretical system where social stratification is based solely on individual effort and merit.
* Characteristics: No existing society is a full meritocracy; however, elements are seen in job and academic achievements.
* Importance: Meritocracy is an ideal since it values personal achievement over social background.
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7. Status Consistency
* Definition: The alignment of an individual’s social factors (e.g., education, income) across their lifetime.
* High Status Consistency: Found in closed systems like caste systems, where one’s position is fixed.
* Low Status Consistency: Found in open systems like class systems, where inconsistencies in education, occupation, and income allow for mobility.
Example: Serena’s career path from high school graduate to business owner demonstrates low status consistency, showcasing upward social mobility within a class system.
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8. Case Study: Meghan Markle and Prince Harry
* Context: Markle, an American-born actress, gained royal status through marriage to Prince Harry.
* Implications: Demonstrates how modern societies allow individuals to cross class boundaries, yet Markle and Harry’s story also highlights ongoing social pressures and media scrutiny.
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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
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Study Tips
* Conceptual Comparison: Use a table to differentiate between caste and class systems.
* Real-World Examples: Think of modern examples of social mobility and status inconsistency.
* Reflection Questions:
* How does the American Dream reflect or challenge the realities of social stratification?
* Why might meritocracy be an ideal rather than a practical system?