Question

Which of the following characterises the concept of ’Social Stratification’?
(A) It is supported by belief or ideology.
(B) It is only found in caste-based societies.
(C) It persists over generations.
(D) People with more privileges support the system of stratification.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. (A), (B) and (D) only
• B. (A), (C) and (D) only
• C. (A), (B) and (C) only
• D. (B), (C) and (D) only

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Social stratification is a key concept in sociology, referring to the hierarchical arrangement of individuals in a society based on their socio-economic status. To determine which characteristics describe social stratification, let's analyze each statement: 

1. (A) It is supported by belief or ideology: Social stratification is often justified and maintained through societal norms, beliefs, and ideologies. For instance, meritocracy in capitalist societies is a belief that justifies social stratification. Therefore, this statement is true.
2. (B) It is only found in caste-based societies: Social stratification occurs in various forms across different societies, including class, race, ethnicity, and gender, not just in caste-based societies. Thus, this statement is false.
3. (C) It persists over generations: One of the characteristics of social stratification is that it tends to persist over generations, with each generation often remaining in the social position of their forebears unless significant social mobility occurs. This statement is true.
4. (D) People with more privileges support the system of stratification: Individuals who benefit from the stratification system often support it, as they have a vested interest in maintaining their advantages. This statement is true.

Based on the analysis, the characteristics that truly define social stratification are (A), (C), and (D). Thus, the correct answer is: (A), (C) and (D) only

Answer 2

The concept of Social Stratification refers to the hierarchical arrangement of individuals or groups in a society based on factors like wealth, power, education, and social status. It has the following characteristics:

• (A) It is supported by belief or ideology: Social stratification is often justified and perpetuated by beliefs and ideologies, such as those that suggest certain groups are naturally superior to others, or that inequality is deserved.
• (C) It persists over generations: Social stratification tends to be inherited from one generation to the next, with individuals often born into a particular social class, making it difficult for them to move up or down the social ladder.
• (D) People with more privileges support the system of stratification: Those who benefit from social stratification, typically the wealthy and powerful, often support and reinforce the system because it benefits their status and resources.
• (B) It is only found in caste-based societies is incorrect because social stratification exists in many different societies, not just caste-based ones. Stratification can be based on various factors such as class, race, ethnicity, and wealth, not just caste.

Thus, the correct answer is (2) (A), (C) and (D) only.