Sociology Paper On Social Classes

INTRODUCTION Social class is a set of concepts in the HYPERLINK http//en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_sciences social sciences centered on models of HYPERLINK http//en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_stratification social stratification in which people are grouped into a set of HYPERLINK http//en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hierarchical hierarchical social categories, the most common being the upper, middle, and lower classes. Social stratification involves three dimensions of inequality class, status, and power. Class refers to the economic position of the individual. Status denotes the degree of prestige or social honor of the individual. Occupation and education are typically the basis for extent of prestige. Power refers to the ability to make other people do what you want. Social class inequality is a multidimensional ranking rather than a hierarchy of clearly defined economic income groups. (Nalkur, Sonal 10a) Looking at an individuals income, wealth, occupational prestige, and education measures social class. Social class determines access to resources by putting people in different positions of advantage or disadvantage. (Ehrenreich) Cultural resources are an important part of the social class system in many societies. People with the same status have similar life styles, and, thus, form status groups. Higher status groups establish their own cultural traits as the most valued culture. They maintain their high status by knowing