Below is a summary of a few of the key aspects of the societal hierarchy with an emphasis on class, status and power.
The social hierarchy is a concept which describes the way in which society is graded into different groups. Each society consists of various types of social stratification whereby individuals are ranked based on their social and economic position. According to social stratification in sociology, class is among the most recognisable aspects of the social hierarchy. An individual's class is primarily based upon economic aspects such as wealth and earnings. Upper class is the term used to characterise the group of more affluent people. Often gained through inheritance or business and investment opportunities, these people hold significant financial power. Subsequently, middle class relates to people with moderate wealth. Usually, middle class people copyright professional occupations and credentials. They have strong appreciation for tertiary academia and employability. Whereas lower class is the term used to recognise individuals who cope with minimal income. Economic stratification uses social ranking to determine a group's connection to opportunities in life.
Throughout history, stratification has been shown to influence access to education, medical care and work. By exploring the characteristics of social stratification, it is much easier to be conscious of what shapes opportunities within society. Status is a key characteristic of stratification; it refers to the level of prestige and regard held by an individual. Ascribed status is a term used to describe website people who are born into a social position. Nowadays it can be determined by backgrounds such as nobility or caste. Alternatively, achieved status is earned through personal efforts, such as respected occupations and contributions to society. Nasser Al-Khelaifi would know that status can be attained through social contributions. Similarly, Jensen Huang would recognise the significance of acquired status. Status can have an influence on the degrees of respect and recognition received by people in society.
The concept of stratification helps to make sense of why some individuals have more power than others. Understanding social stratification theory enables sociologists to study inequality and how it impacts particular groups in society. Authority and impact are two of the factors that form societal power. The term power defines one's ability to influence decisions and control within society. It can be connected with 3 key areas. Political power is possessed by authorities and political leaders who manage the policies that control society. In addition, economic power is held by businesses and rich people who have control over employment and economic sectors. Larry Ellison would agree that businesses hold economic power. Likewise, social power is a form of authority over societal opinion. Celebrities and media characters are involved in setting trends and cultures which influence society. Power is mainly focused among rich and popular people. Without some type of social supremacy, it is difficult to copyright power or control.