Question 1

What is social stratification?

Accepted Answer

Social stratification is the hierarchical ranking of groups of people in a society based on factors such as wealth, power, and prestige, resulting in unequal access to resources and opportunities.

Question 2

What is the difference between achieved status and ascribed status in the context of stratification?

Accepted Answer

Ascribed status is a social position assigned at birth or involuntarily (e.g., race, sex), while achieved status is earned through personal effort, talent, or choice (e.g., occupation, education level).

Question 3

In sociology, what are the three dimensions of stratification identified by Max Weber?

Accepted Answer

Max Weber identified class (economic wealth), status (social prestige/honor), and party (power/political influence) as the three distinct but interrelated dimensions of stratification.

Question 4

What is life chances, as used by Max Weber in stratification theory?

Accepted Answer

Life chances refer to the opportunities an individual has to improve their quality of life, including access to education, healthcare, and material goods, largely determined by one's position in the stratification system.

Question 5

What is the difference between a caste system and a class system of stratification?

Accepted Answer

A caste system is a closed, rigid hierarchy where status is ascribed at birth and social mobility is virtually impossible, while a class system is more open and allows for social mobility based on achieved characteristics.

Social Stratification – CLEP Sociology Exam Prep

Also Included in the Study Bundle

Practice Tests

Study Guides

Match Game

Try These Cards

Want to keep studying?

Related Study Decks

Cell Biology – CLEP Exam Prep

Civil War & Reconstruction

CLEP College Level Examination Program — Complete Bundle

Genetics & Evolution – CLEP Exam Prep

Learning & Memory – CLEP Psychology Exam Prep

Psychological Disorders – CLEP Exam Prep

Unlock the Full CLEP College Level Examination Program Study Bundle