Week 12-1 Social stratification

12-1

1. Summary
Social class refers to a person's relative position in society. The status inequality of human determines the structure of this social class. It is usually based on power, wealth, income, occupation, and social status. Social stratification is interpreted and used differently according to a specific theory. For example, proponents of action theory consider social stratification as necessary to maintain social order. Conflict theory, on the other hand, points out that social stratification limits the possibility of social mobility between classes. This social stratification is a social asset and is reproduced through generations. Social stratification is a universal concept in terms of existence, but its appearance may vary depending on the time and place. Social stratification is a concept that includes both quantitative inequality and qualitative beliefs. Especially in complex societies, it is easy to find this kind of stratification. In an open society, social mobility is relatively easy. On the other hand, in a closed society, social mobility is extremely limited.

Prominent scholars have raised several arguments about social stratification. Typical examples are Karl Max and Max Weber. Carl Marx explained social stratification on the basis of economics. On the other hand, Max Weber explained social stratification based on political, economic, and social aspects.

Meanwhile, various variables are used to study social stratification. For example, GDP per capita helps explain international social inequality and social stratification. In addition, quantitative and qualitative variables are variables that influence social stratification independently. In addition, social expectations formed by gender differences are one of the variables that can explain social stratification. Race and ethnicity are also important variables for relevant description. In addition, mobile capabilities have become an important factor in understanding the rapidly changing stratification of modern society.


2. Interesting
-I have always studied the theory of Karl Marx and Max Weber to understand the stratification of society. However, as the explains of the article, the present is quite different from the days when Karl Marx and Max Weber were active. It was impressive to recognize this and present additional mobile capabilities as variables to explain social stratification.


3. Discussion
-In addition to the variables presented in the text, are there any significant variables that can explain social stratification?

-The view of social stratification depends on the specific theory. What theory do you agree with Or do you have a new perspective on understanding social stratification other than the theory presented?

-Max Weber compares political, economic, and social status to explain social class. However, in reality, each status of people are different. For example, a teacher's social status is quite high, but his economic status is not that high in korea. What do you think is the cause of this status mismatch?

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