Meaning Of Social Stratification

Social stratification refers to the hierarchical organization of society into different layers based on various criteria.

Definition (Ogburn And Nimkoff)

This section outlines the definition of social stratification as proposed by sociologists Ogburn and Nimkoff, emphasizing its structured hierarchy within society.

Characteristics Of Social Stratification

Social stratification is a complex societal structure characterized by hierarchical layers based on various criteria.

Forms Of Social Stratification

This section outlines the various forms of social stratification, including caste, class, slavery, and the estate system, and explains their characteristics and implications in society.

Caste System

The caste system is a rigid social hierarchy in India based on birth, leading to pronounced social structure and limited mobility.

Class System

The class system denotes a type of social stratification based on economic factors, allowing for social mobility and characterized by its open and fluid nature.

Slavery

Slavery represents an extreme form of social stratification where individuals are owned as property without rights or freedom.

Estate System

The estate system is a form of social stratification based on land ownership and loyalty to nobility, characterized by limited mobility and hereditary status.

Social Mobility

Social mobility is the movement of individuals or groups within the social hierarchy, influenced by various factors.

Types Of Mobility

This section discusses the different types of social mobility, including horizontal and vertical mobility, and the factors that influence movement within the social hierarchy.

Factors Influencing Mobility

This section explores the various factors that determine social mobility, including education, economic development, urbanization, legislation, and marriage.

Theories Of Social Stratification

The theories of social stratification explain how societies organize individuals into hierarchical structures based on various factors, emphasizing perspectives from functionalism, conflict theory, and Weber's multidimensional analysis.

Functionalist Theory (Davis And Moore)

The Functionalist Theory by Davis and Moore posits that social stratification is essential for the functioning of society, as it allocates roles based on competence and motivation.

Conflict Theory (Karl Marx)

Conflict Theory, as proposed by Karl Marx, emphasizes that social stratification is fundamentally a result of class conflict, where the interests of the powerful contrast sharply with those of the powerless.

Weber’s Theory

Weber’s theory presents a multidimensional view of social stratification, distinguishing between class, status, and party power.

Effects Of Social Stratification

Social stratification influences societal organization and individual experiences through its positive and negative effects.

Positive Effects

This section discusses the positive effects of social stratification in society.

Negative Effects

Social stratification leads to several negative effects in society, including inequality, discrimination, and social unrest.

Social Stratification In India

Social stratification in India involves a complex interplay of caste and class systems, reflecting historical contexts and modern transformations.

Changes In Stratification Patterns In India

This section discusses the evolving stratification patterns in India due to urbanization, education, and other socio-economic factors.

Key Terms

This section defines key terms related to social stratification, outlining its principal concepts.

Summary

Social stratification defines how society organizes itself into different layers based on various factors like wealth and status, influencing access to resources and life chances.