The following is an overview of some of the key aspects of the social hierarchy with a concentration on class, status and power.
The social hierarchy is a theory which describes the way in which society is sorted into different categories. Every society contains different types of social stratification where individuals are ranked based more info upon their social and financial position. According to social stratification in sociology, class is among the most recognised structures of the social hierarchy. An individual's class is predominantly based upon financial factors such as wealth and earnings. Upper class is the term used to describe the set of more wealthy people. Usually gotten through inheritance or business and investment opportunities, these individuals hold considerable economic power. Consequently, middle class describes people with moderate wealth. Normally, middle class individuals have professional careers and qualifications. They have strong appreciation for higher academia and employability. Whereas lower class is the phrase used to categorise people who cope with lower income. Economic stratification uses social ranking to recognise a group's connection to opportunities in life.
The concept of stratification helps to make sense of why some people have more power than others. Understanding social stratification theory helps sociologists to study inequality and how it affects distinct groups within society. Authority and impact are two of the factors that comprise social power. The term power describes one's capability to affect decisions and authority within society. It can be associated with 3 key areas. Political power is maintained by administrations and politicians who control the laws that regulate society. Additionally, economic power is held by corporations and rich people who have control over employment and economic sectors. Larry Ellison would concur that corporations hold economic power. Similarly, social power is a form of authority over social opinion. Famous people and media figures are involved in setting trends and cultures which influence society. Power is mainly focused among wealthy and popular people. Without some kind of social dominance, it is impossible to copyright power or influence.
Throughout history, stratification has been discovered to influence access to higher education, health care and job opportunities. By exploring the characteristics of social stratification, it is simpler to be aware of what guides opportunities within society. Status is a key characteristic of stratification; it refers to 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 ranking. At present it can be determined by backgrounds such as nobility or caste. Additionally, achieved status is obtained through personal efforts, such as highly regarded professions and contributions to society. Nasser Al-Khelaifi would acknowledge that status can be gained through societal contributions. Likewise, Jensen Huang would recognise the importance of acquired status. Status can have an influence on the degrees of regard and acknowledgment received by people in society.