Social Stratification: A Horizontal Division of Society

Social Stratification: A Horizontal Division of Society

Social stratification is a system of social inequality in which people are ranked into different groups based on their access to resources and power. This system is often referred to as a "hierarchy," with some groups having more power and resources than others.

One of the most well-known definitions of social stratification was proposed by Charles Horton Cooley. Cooley defined social stratification as a "horizontal division of society with higher and lower social units." This definition emphasizes the hierarchical nature of social stratification, with some groups having more power and resources than others.

Cooley's definition is useful for understanding how social inequality is created and maintained. It can be used to analyze the factors that contribute to social inequality, such as wealth, income, education, and power.

For example, Cooley's definition can be used to understand the relationship between wealth and social status. In many societies, wealth is a key determinant of social status. People who have more wealth are typically able to access better education, healthcare, and housing. They also have more power and influence in society. This can lead to a self-reinforcing cycle, where wealth leads to social status, which leads to more wealth.

Cooley's definition can also be used to understand the relationship between race and social status. In many societies, race is a significant factor in determining social status. People of color are often marginalized and excluded from positions of power and privilege. This can lead to a cycle of poverty and inequality, which is difficult to break.

Cooley's definition is a useful tool for understanding social stratification. It is a clear, concise, and easy-to-understand definition that captures the hierarchical nature of social stratification. It can be used to analyze the factors that contribute to social inequality, and it can help us to understand how social inequality is created and maintained.

In addition to Cooley's definition, there are other ways to define social stratification. Some of the most common definitions include:

• Weber's definition: Social stratification is the "distribution of power, honor, and wealth among the members of a society."
• Marx's definition: Social stratification is the "division of society into classes based on their relationship to the means of production."
• Dahrendorf's definition: Social stratification is the "system of inequality in which people are ranked into different groups based on their access to resources and power."

These definitions all capture different aspects of social stratification. However, they all agree that social stratification is a system of inequality in which people are ranked into different groups based on their access to resources and power.

Social stratification is a complex and important phenomenon. It has a significant impact on people's lives, and it can shape their opportunities and experiences. By understanding social stratification, we can better understand the world around us and the challenges that people face.

I hope this blog has helped you to understand social stratification and Cooley's definition. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment below.

MH SET 2021 SOCIAL WORK PAPER 2 SET A SEPTEMBER 26, 2021 Q

Who defined social stratification as a horizontal division of society with higher and lower social units? (A) Murray (B) Cooley (C) Williams (D) Lundberg

The answer is (B), Cooley.

Charles Horton Cooley (1864-1929) was an American sociologist who is considered one of the founders of symbolic interactionism. He defined social stratification as a "horizontal division of society with higher and lower social units." This definition emphasizes the hierarchical nature of social stratification, with some groups having more power and resources than others.