Social Stratification

Question 1

Social Class

Answer 1

Category of people who share a similar socioeconomic position in society.

• Identified by looking at the economic opportunities, job positions, lifestyles, attitudes and behaviors of the group

Question 2

Ascribed status

Answer 2

Status that is derived from clearly identifiable characteristics such as age, gender and skin color (involuntary)

Question 3

Achieved status

Answer 3

Acquired via direct, individual efforts like hard work and education

Question 4

Prestige

Answer 4

Amount of positive regard society has for a given person or idea.

Certain positions, such as physicians, are broadly viewed with high levels of respect and importance

Question 5

Power

Answer 5

The ability to affect others’ behavior through real or perceived rewards and punishments, and is based on the unequal distribution of valued resources

Question 6

Class consciousness

Answer 6

Refers to the organization of the working class around shared goals and recognition of a need for collective political action. By working together, they could take control of the political and economic system

Question 7

False consciousness

Answer 7

A misperception of ones actual position in society.

Question 8

Anomie

Answer 8

Refers to a lack of social norms, or the breakdown of social bonds between an individual and society.

Accelerates social inequality

Question 9

Strain theory

Answer 9

Focuses on how anomic conditions can lead to deviance

Question 10

Social capitol

Answer 10

Can be considered the investments people make in their society in return for economic or collective rewards; the greater the investment, the higher the level of social network.