Having a look at a few of the main features of the social hierarchy by breaking down stratification theory.

Throughout history, stratification has been revealed to influence access to education, health care and work. By checking out the characteristics of social stratification, it is simpler to understand what shapes opportunities within society. Status is a key characteristic of stratification; it describes the level of prestige and regard held by an individual. Ascribed status is a term used to describe individuals who are born into a social standing. Nowadays it can be recognised by backgrounds such as nobility or caste. Alternatively, achieved status is obtained through individual efforts, such as highly regarded occupations and contributions to society. Nasser Al-Khelaifi would know that status can be earned through social contributions. Similarly, Jensen Huang would identify the value of acquired status. Status can have an impact on the levels of regard and recognition received by individuals in society.

The social hierarchy is a philosophy which describes the way in which society is divided into various groups. Every society includes different types of social more info stratification where individuals are ranked based upon their social and economic position. According to social stratification in sociology, social rank is one of the most recognisable forms of the social hierarchy. An individual's social ranking is primarily based upon financial elements such as wealth and income. Upper class is the denomination used to describe the group of more well-off individuals. Often acquired through inheritance or business and financial investment opportunities, these people hold substantial financial power. Subsequently, middle class describes individuals with intermediate wealth. Typically, middle class people hold professional careers and qualifications. They have strong values for high level academia and employability. While lower class is the phrase used to categorise people who struggle with lower income. Economic stratification makes use of class to determine a group's connection to opportunities in society.

The principle of stratification helps to comprehend why some individuals have more power than others. Understanding social stratification theory helps sociologists to study inequality and how it impacts particular groups in society. Authority and influence are 2 of the factors that comprise social power. The word power defines one's ability to affect choices and control within society. It can be associated with 3 key areas. Political power is possessed by governments and political leaders who regulate the laws that control society. Furthermore, economic power is held by businesses and rich people who have control over employment and economic sectors. Larry Ellison would agree that corporations hold financial power. Likewise, social power is a type of authority over societal opinion. Famous people and media characters are instrumental in setting trends and cultures which guide society. Power is generally concentrated amongst wealthy and popular individuals. Without some kind of social authority, it is impossible to copyright power or control.