ugc net Sociology : samajik starikaran। सामाजिक स्तरीकरण। Social stritifaction

Summary

This video script delves into the concept of social stratification, exploring its origins, definitions, and various theories. It covers the layers of society, emphasizing the unequal distribution of resources, power, and prestige. Scholars such as Parsons and Majumdar are referenced, along with discussions on caste systems and social mobility. The script touches upon functionalism, caste-based stratification, and the economic theory of social stratification. It also highlights the relevance of social stratification in Indian society and its impact on social, cultural, and economic structures, offering a comprehensive understanding of the topic.

Takeaways

• 😀 Social stratification, first used in geology in the 1940s, refers to the layering of different groups in society based on various factors such as wealth, power, and prestige.
• 😀 Social stratification is a concept that is not neutral and often involves discrimination between higher and lower social classes or groups.
• 😀 The concept of social mobility is closely linked to stratification. It refers to the movement of individuals or groups from one layer or social class to another.
• 😀 Resources like money and power are unevenly distributed in society, leading to social inequality, where some individuals or groups have more access to these resources than others.
• 😀 Social stratification can manifest through various forms such as caste systems, feudalism, and slavery, each with its own methods of maintaining hierarchy and order.
• 😀 The caste system, a prominent feature in Indian society, divides people into hierarchical groups based on birth, occupation, and social status, and continues to influence social relations today.
• 😀 The functional theory of social stratification, proposed by thinkers like Parsons, suggests that some social roles require special qualifications, leading to unequal distribution of rewards and respect.
• 😀 Social stratification is not just an economic issue but also involves cultural and religious factors, which maintain the status quo through beliefs and practices that legitimize inequalities.
• 😀 There are various types of mobility, including upward and downward mobility, where individuals may rise or fall in social status based on personal achievements or social changes.
• 😀 Criticism of social stratification theories includes the view that not all individuals in society are equally important, and that certain jobs or roles (like manual labor) are undervalued despite their importance to societal function.

Q & A

What is social stratification?

Social stratification refers to the hierarchical arrangement of individuals in society based on factors like wealth, power, and prestige. It divides society into layers or strata with varying levels of privilege and resources.

How was the term 'social stratification' originally used?

The term 'social stratification' was initially used in geology during the 1940s, referring to layers of soil. The concept was later adopted by sociology to describe the layers of society.

What is the significance of the caste system in social stratification in India?

The caste system in India is a prominent example of social stratification, where individuals are classified into hierarchical groups based on their birth. This system is deeply rooted in social, cultural, and religious beliefs.

How does social stratification impact an individual's life?

Social stratification influences an individual's opportunities and quality of life. Higher strata typically have better access to resources, education, and power, while lower strata face limitations in these areas.

What is the concept of social mobility?

Social mobility refers to the ability of individuals to move between different strata in society, either upwards or downwards, based on changes in factors like income, education, or occupation.

What role does social inequality play in social stratification?

Social inequality is a key aspect of social stratification, where some groups have more access to resources and power than others. This inequality creates distinct social classes with unequal opportunities and living standards.

What did Parsons say about social stratification?

Parsons suggested that social stratification is functional for society as it helps allocate roles based on individuals' abilities and qualifications. He believed that each role in society, whether high or low, is necessary for social stability.

What are the different forms of social stratification discussed in the transcript?

The transcript discusses four forms of social stratification: slavery, caste system, feudalism, and class systems. These systems categorize people based on various factors like birth, occupation, and social status.

How does the caste system contribute to social stratification in India?

The caste system in India divides people into rigid social groups (Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, Shudras) that are assigned specific roles and responsibilities. This division creates inequality and limits social mobility.

What is the functional theory of social stratification?

The functional theory, as explained by Parsons, argues that social stratification is necessary for the functioning of society. It suggests that certain roles require special skills, and those in higher strata typically receive more rewards (such as money, power, and respect) because their roles are deemed more important for society's operation.