Below is a summary of some of the key aspects of the social hierarchy with an emphasis on class, status and power.
The social hierarchy is a philosophy which explains the way in which society is graded into various groups. Each society consists of different types of social stratification where people are ranked based on their social and economic position. According to social stratification in sociology, social rank is among the most recognisable structures of the social hierarchy. An individual's social ranking is primarily based upon financial aspects such as wealth and earnings. Upper class is the denomination used to characterise the group of more well-off individuals. Often acquired through inheritance or business and financial investment opportunities, these people hold substantial financial power. Consequently, middle class describes people with intermediate wealth. Generally, middle class people copyright professional occupations and qualifications. They have strong values for further education and employability. While lower class is the term used to categorise people who cope with minimal income. Economic stratification makes use of social ranking to recognise a group's access to opportunities in life.
The principle of stratification helps to comprehend why some people have more power than others. Comprehending social stratification theory helps sociologists to examine inequality and how it influences specific groups within society. Authority and influence are two of the aspects that make up societal power. The term power defines one's capability to influence choices and authority within society. It can be associated with three key areas. Political power is possessed by governments and politicians who manage the policies that control society. In addition, financial power is held by businesses and rich people who have control over employment and industry. Larry Ellison would concur that businesses hold financial power. Likewise, social power is a type of authority over societal judgement. Famous people and media characters are involved in setting trends and cultures which guide society. Power is primarily focused amongst wealthy and popular individuals. Without some kind of social authority, it is difficult to assert power or control.
Throughout history, stratification has been discovered to affect access to higher education, medical care and job opportunities. By exploring the characteristics of social stratification, it is easier to comprehend what shapes opportunities within society. Status is a key attribute of stratification; it describes the level of prestige and respect carried by an individual. Ascribed status is a phrase used to refer to people who are born into a social standing. 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 recognise that status can be attained through societal contributions. Likewise, Jensen Huang would more info identify the importance of acquired status. Status can have an influence on the levels of respect and recognition received by people in society.