Social Stratification. Part ONE: The Basics DEFINITION: the ranking of individuals based on the unequal distribution of power, prestige & propertyDEFINITION:

Social Stratification

Part ONE: The Basics

DEFINITION: the ranking of individuals based on the unequal distribution of power, prestige & propertyDEFINITION: the ranking of individuals based on the unequal distribution of power, prestige & property Access to scarce resources & social rewardsAccess to scarce resources & social rewards Resources & Rewards:Resources & Rewards: Ex: Education, stable job and bank loanEx: Education, stable job and bank loan Social Stratification

In most cases, power, prestige & property occur together; however, this is not always trueIn most cases, power, prestige & property occur together; however, this is not always true EXAMPLES?EXAMPLES?

Property:Property: Net worth and/or wealthNet worth and/or wealth Objective measurementObjective measurement Wealth Distribution in AmericaWealth Distribution in AmericaWealth Distribution in AmericaWealth Distribution in America Power:Power: Capacity to influence people & events in order to obtain wealth & prestigeCapacity to influence people & events in order to obtain wealth & prestige Subjective measurementSubjective measurement Social Stratification

Prestige:Prestige: An individuals status among his peers and in societyAn individuals status among his peers and in society Subjective measurementSubjective measurement Social Stratification

Which careers do you think are most prestigious? Least prestigious? Do you agree??Which careers do you think are most prestigious? Least prestigious? Do you agree??

Socioeconomic Status DEFINITION: a rating that determines an individuals relative position within the system of stratificationDEFINITION: a rating that determines an individuals relative position within the system of stratification Three Factors:Three Factors: EducationEducation OccupationOccupation IncomeIncome

Part TWO: Systems of Stratification

Caste System Position based on ascribed statusPosition based on ascribed status Fixed, closed boundariesFixed, closed boundaries Not much potential for social mobilityNot much potential for social mobility Endogamy; exogamy not permittedEndogamy; exogamy not permitted Status consistencyStatus consistency

Position based on achieved statusPosition based on achieved status Open boundariesOpen boundaries Greater potential for social mobilityGreater potential for social mobility Endogamy not required; exogamy allowedEndogamy not required; exogamy allowed Less status consistencyLess status consistency Class System

Social Class DEFINITION: a group of people who share similar levels of wealth, influence and status (SES)DEFINITION: a group of people who share similar levels of wealth, influence and status (SES) Sociologists use THREE methods to determine ones social classSociologists use THREE methods to determine ones social class

Social Class Objective Method: analyzes hard factsObjective Method: analyzes hard facts Subjective Method: asks people what they think of themselvesSubjective Method: asks people what they think of themselves Reputational Method: asks what people think of othersReputational Method: asks what people think of others

Part THREE: Social Stratification in the US

Hot Button Question: Why are wealthy people wealthy? Why are poor people poor?

Wealthy people have a different mindset than poor people. To wealthy people, money is very important so they will do whatever they need to become successful. They worked for their wealth or they were given their wealth Wealthy people are wealthy because they work hard and seek for opportunities to help them. I dont think that all wealthy people are just born into their wealth. They worked hard in school and strived to be the person they are today. They worked hardsome people are born into it but they still have to work hard to continue to generate money. Student ResponsesWealthy people are wealthy because

They work for what they want. They tend to come from backgrounds that promote individualism & independence. They generally come from wealth and know how to manage money. Sometimes it has to do with what you are born into, but a lot of it has to do with personal drive and wanting to be successful. They achieve a status, they are born into wealth, or they inherit it. They are hardworking or through cheating and stealing. Student ResponsesWealthy people are wealthy because

They obtain wealth by working well-paying jobs, investing/saving their money & by making smart financial decisions They are the in most cases the ones that worked the hardest They have made some type of effort to get the money they have Because they are raised well, hard-working, and/or lucky They either worked their *** off all their lives or theyve become wealthy from a past generation that worked their butt off Student ResponsesWealthy people are wealthy because

They have the ability to stay wealthy by maybe manipulation, discretion, and some stay wealthy keeping poor the poor They could own their own business, or have a very advanced job at a major company where they are paid good money. In my opinion, not all wealthy people deserve to be wealthy. Some are only wealthy b/c of money they inherited from their parents, so in reality they worked for nothing Wealthy people are almost always afforded unique opportunities from birth Because of their parentsor b/c theyre attractive and married into it Student ResponsesWealthy people are wealthy because

Because our capitalist economic system is being hindered by socialist methods from our government. These socialist policies are to blame for the worrying pattern of the wealthy remaining wealthy through generations, and the poor and homeless being unable to find more success. After all, capitalism guarantees an equal chance of finding success for all, not guaranteed success for allbut hey, if you prefer that comfort, please move to France and let the USA do its own thing. Student ResponsesWealthy people are wealthy because

They work hard to earn a living. They save their money wisely in order to remain wealthy. They worked harder or smarter than everyone else. They are smart, work hard, and work in fields that are their strengths. They went the extra mile to succeed and have the best education to get the best paying job. Student ResponsesWealthy people are wealthy because

They have money. They either inherited the money or they know how the world works. They can afford excess. They either have an amazing job, or got money passed down. Often wealthy people are wealthy because they are born into a family who has collected wealth for many years. Student ResponsesWealthy people are wealthy because

They decided to not go to school, because they were cheated, or because they cant find a job that can make them enough money. Something detrimental happened, by choices, or just that is has always been that way. They were born poor. Some poor people have made poor decisions (pun intended??), while some are just going through rough times. Student ResponsesPoor people are poor because

They are underachievers with little to no aspiration to succeed. They didnt work. Everyone in America has access to public schools, an affordable community college, or even an outstanding university for free if they work hard enough to get a scholarshippoverty is brought on by yourself. They cant manage money or didnt take school seriously or made a bad decision. They come from backgrounds that involved a lot of dependence. They are not working hard enough and are lazy or just very unlucky. Student ResponsesPoor people are poor because

They either didnt try or didnt want to work hard Of bad financial decisions, not having enough money to overspend/live beyond their means They have not made smart financial decisions They have not done anything, therefore they are poor Usually because they are lazy or stupid Student ResponsesPoor people are poor because

They are lazy and dont work as hard as wealthy people. They are lazy and dont do enough for themselves and probably do drugs. Poor people dont know how to invest and save their money. Also, they dont take advantage of the education given to them. They dont want to try as hard as those who are wealthier. They want to work for someone instead of being an entrepreneur. They are unwilling to work or have bad luck. Student ResponsesPoor people are poor because

Each person has a hand dealt to them in life. Intelligence, as well as social opportunities such as wealth, schooling and peer group influences our goals and outcomes In most cases, I dont think poor people work any less hard they just didnt necessarily have the same advantages of others Poor people usually havent had access to the resources needed to break the cycle of poverty They were born into poverty Student ResponsesPoor people are poor because

They have lower income jobs. They either lost a job, grew up in a poor environment, dont have an education, or couldnt afford an education, or are just lazy and live off the government. They were either born into a poor family and had less opportunities or did not work hard. The poor are poor because of their pre-existing situation, economic tragedies that happened in their life, and their low access to higher paying jobs. Poor people may not have the same opportunities as the wealthy. Student ResponsesPoor people are poor because

Some people are wealthy because they worked hard to get a good job. Some people are poor because they havent worked for money. HOWEVER, more often people are born into a social class that gives them either advantages or disadvantages in society. And Finally

Hot Button Question: Is homelessness a problem that should concern the American public? If so, what should be done to remedy the issue of homelessness? Should the government do something?

Yes, the government needs to afford all of its citizens an equal chance at contributing their potential to society. This equal opportunity often needs an initial assistance to be functional. Yes, we should never abandon or turn our backs on those most in need. Those who have think they have worked hard for what they have and think they poor are just lazy; however, the poor have worked just as hard, they just arent given the same opportunities Student ResponsesYES!

Yes, because we pride ourselves on being a country to helps all I feel like homelessness should be a concern to the American public because if we were to put ourselves in their shoes, half of us would not survive due to the spoiledness that we have becomesince everyone is so quick to take in a stray dog or cat, why cant we as humans, help other humans in need? Student ResponsesYES!

Yes, it should concern the public. A nation can best be seen at how it treats its worst of citizens. Much more than what is being done, via welfare programs and outreach projects to actually help those in need get back on their feet Yes, homelessness degrades the quality of life for all around Yes, I dont think it should be an obligation that people help the homeless, but I still wish more people would care to help Student ResponsesYES!

Yes, I think that many people have the misconception that homeless individuals are the people who made poor decisions or didnt follow the right track in life. Though this may be true for some, most are stuck in an unfortunate situation Student ResponsesYES!

Yes, homelessness should be a concern because people have a need and for most of them it isnt their fault. Even if it is their fault, we should try to help. A remedy would be for everyone to donate food, or time to build shelters or talk to these people. Yes. There should be a bigger effort to create homeless shelters where people can be educated and helped to find a job. Student ResponsesYES!

There is homelessness all over America, it just might not be seen in places that arent big cities. I think it should concern people. I dont believe that people shouldnt have a home. More people should be willing to open up homeless shelters and feed hungry and homeless people.

Student ResponsesUMM To a certain extent, yes homelessness is a bad thing and we should try to help in any way, but there will always be homeless people so it should not be our main focus. To an extent. There isnt much that can be done if they arent willing to work for it. To an extent. Charity work is great and should be encouraged; however, it should not turn into the burden for others to bear

Student ResponsesUMM Homelessness is a problem, but I think we should look at it on a person level. I believe we should ask the questions: Are they truly trying hard to get a job? Are they drug-free? Homelessness is a problem that should be sympathized by the American public, but not one that should concern them because all societies have homeless people. We should just continue trying to create jobs and collecting food for charities.

Student ResponsesNO! I dont think that homelessness is that much of a problem today because of all of the welfare bills or acts that allow people to live off of the government. The government is allowing people to not have to work and still receive money.

Student ResponsesNO! No, homelessness is not an American problem, it is the homeless persons problem. Homelessness is not a concern America should be worried about because its an individuals problem. No. Most of the time its their fault.

Hot Button Question: Does the government have a responsibility to help the homeless?

Student ResponsesYES Yes, whether it be giving them a temporary place to live or checks to help pay for food, help should always be given until those people get back on their feet. If our govt has the power to tax us and regulate our rights then they have the power to administer help to the struggling member of society Yes, in a democratic society where the people hold the power, the govt should help those who do not have the same advantages

Student ResponsesYES The governments job is to serve the people, not vice versa. It has duty to do everything it can do to help those who are having a difficult time in life Yes, the govt is for the people so it should do everything in its power to help the less privileged Yes, because a lot of time its not their fault. Theres a reason its called privilege and some people start off without that privilege at a disadvantage and they are stuck there through no fault of their own. The govt is supposed to look after the welfare of its people and it shouldnt be able to pick and choose which ones to help and which ones to ignore

Student ResponsesSORT OF? The govt does have a responsibility, yet they should not continue to excessively rob those who work hard of their well earned money I feel the govt should try and help the less privileged but not the ones that just dont care at all about their future that is a waste of time and money and effort Yes, to an extent It should be verified that those who the govt is investing in are having to help themselves (drug testing, looking for jobs, etc) In a smaller way, yes. The govt should only assist those in most need with others dependent on themthey should be actively trying to help themselvesnot just people who live off of the govt

Lower Class 1520% of population1520% of population Less than $23,000/yearLess than $23,000/year

Lower Class Characteristics:Characteristics: Poverty, homelessness, unemploymentPoverty, homelessness, unemployment (Absolute poverty v. relative poverty)(Absolute poverty v. relative poverty) Most do not have high school diplomasMost do not have high school diplomas Lack of adequate housing, food, clothing, safety, medical care, etc.Lack of adequate housing, food, clothing, safety, medical care, etc.

Working Class 3040% of population3040% of population Median: males ($40,000) & females ($26,000)Median: males ($40,000) & females ($26,000) Minimally educated, though generally have high school diplomasMinimally educated, though generally have high school diplomas Manual laborManual labor

Working Class Working poor:Working poor: Unskilled workersUnskilled workers Dishwashers, cashiers, maids, servers, etc.Dishwashers, cashiers, maids, servers, etc. Minimum wage; underpaidMinimum wage; underpaid No opportunity for career advancement; dead- end jobNo opportunity for career advancement; dead- end job

Blue Collar:Blue Collar: Skilled workers; tradeSkilled workers; trade Carpenters, plumbers, electricians, truck drivers, police officers, etc.Carpenters, plumbers, electricians, truck drivers, police officers, etc. Better wages than the working poorBetter wages than the working poor Working Class

Middle Class, Sandwich 4050% of population4050% of population Median: males ($70,000) & females ($50,000)Median: males ($70,000) & females ($50,000) Lower Middle:Lower Middle: Less education (B.A.) with lower incomesLess education (B.A.) with lower incomes Upper Middle:Upper Middle: Highly educated (M.A, PhD) with higher incomesHighly educated (M.A, PhD) with higher incomes

Upper Class 13% of population13% of population Generally 250,000+Generally 250,000+ Top 1% owns 33% of total wealthTop 1% owns 33% of total wealth

Upper Class Lower-Upper:Lower-Upper: New moneyNew money Made from investments, business ventures, etc.Made from investments, business ventures, etc.

Upper Class Upper-Upper:Upper-Upper: Old moneyOld money Aristocratic, high-society, inheritanceAristocratic, high-society, inheritance

Generally have an M.A. or higher

Manual, though skilled labor

Generally have a B.A.

May or may not have a high school education

Characterized by new money

Part FOUR: Theory

Structural-Functionalismvs. Conflict Theory Stratification: Theory

Functionalism:Functionalism: Social stratification is a necessary component of society; the linkage of greater rewards to more important social positions benefits society as a whole; USEFUL & INEVITABLESocial stratification is a necessary component of society; the linkage of greater rewards to more important social positions benefits society as a whole; USEFUL & INEVITABLE Conflict:Conflict: Social stratification is the result of social conflict; differences in social rewards serve the interests of some while harming the interests of others; ONLY USEFUL TO SOME PEOPLESocial stratification is the result of social conflict; differences in social rewards serve the interests of some while harming the interests of others; ONLY USEFUL TO SOME PEOPLE

Stratification: Theory Functionalism:Functionalism: Matches talents & abilities to appropriate jobsMatches talents & abilities to appropriate jobs Values & beliefs that legitimize social inequality are shared throughout societyValues & beliefs that legitimize social inequality are shared throughout society Conflict:Conflict: Ensures that large amounts of talent & ability will NOT be developedEnsures that large amounts of talent & ability will NOT be developed Values & beliefs tend to reflect the interests of the more powerful members of societyValues & beliefs tend to reflect the interests of the more powerful members of society

Part FIVE: Social Mobility

Social Mobility Definition: the movement between or within social classes or strataDefinition: the movement between or within social classes or strata An important feature of the open class systemAn important feature of the open class system

Types of Social Mobility Horizontal Mobility: movement within a social class or stratumHorizontal Mobility: movement within a social class or stratum Does not involve any major change in a persons wealth, power, or prestigeDoes not involve any major change in a persons wealth, power, or prestige Most commonMost common

Types of Social Mobility Vertical Mobility: movement between social classes or strataVertical Mobility: movement between social classes or strata Can be upward or downwardCan be upward or downward

Types of Social Mobility Intragenerational Mobility: a change in social position that occurs during a person's lifetimeIntragenerational Mobility: a change in social position that occurs during a person's lifetime Intergenerational Mobility: form of vertical mobility in which status differs between generations in the same familyIntergenerational Mobility: form of vertical mobility in which status differs between generations in the same family A quick lesson on social mobilityA quick lesson on social mobilityA quick lessonA quick lesson

Documents

Social Stratification. Part ONE: The Basics DEFINITION: the ranking of individuals based on the unequal distribution of power, prestige & propertyDEFINITION: