Social Stratification

The word stratification means division when we say social stratification it means divisions in
society. division in language, culture, wealth, property, birth, status, age & sex. This social
stratification is found in society in some form or another in the world. This social stratification in
simple society based one sex & age. In complex society it is based on capabilities, birth, wealth,
property, inequality of prestige or difference in ranking system. Hierarchy system, status, position
& power prestige is involved in ranking system of social stratification refers to the ranking system,
status, position & power in society. Inequality exits.
Sorokin said that unstratific society is a myth. In our societies, social stratification is to caste &
class.
Acc. to P.Kinsberg "Social Stratification linked is the division of society into permanent group
or categories linked with each other by the relationship of superiority & sub-ordination."
Sorokin explained social stratification means the differentiation of the given population. Into
hierarchally superposed class; it is manifested in existence of upper & lower social layers." He
further says unstratified society with social equality of its members is a myth which has never
been realized in the history of mankind." According. to Raymond necessary - Stratification is a
horizontal division of society into higher or lower social units. Lundberg describes about social
stratification as a stratified society is marked by inequality, by difference as among people that
are evaluated about them as been lower & higher. Kurt B.Mayor "Social stratification is a system
of differential which includes a hierarchy of social position whose occupants are treated as
superior, equal or inferior to one another in socially imp. respects. Max Webter-"Social
stratification is an organized manifestation of unequal power in society."
Basis on Forms of Social Stratification Biological stratification on Biological basis age, sex,
birth, race.
a.

age childhood, youth, adult & old (superior or experienced)

b.

Sex male & female. In the Indian context males are considered to be superior.

c.

Birth refers to the caste system. This is divided into sub-castes. There are above 3000
castes & sub-castes. The Brahmin gets the highest position.

d.

Race-white & black usually white are superior. Caucasian white, monoxide yellow &
Negroid block. Socio Cultural Basis Education, wealth, property, business, occupation.

e.

Education literate, illiterate. In this too is divided into many stratus.