Q1. Define social stratification. Briefly describe its key features.
- Social stratification is society's hierarchical ranking of individuals into layers based on wealth, power, and prestige.
- It is a characteristic of society's structure, not merely individual differences or achievements.
- Stratification systems persist across generations, often transmitting social status from parents to children.
- All societies exhibit stratification, but its specific forms and criteria vary universally.
Answer: Social stratification refers to the systematic process by which societies categorize and rank individuals into different layers or 'strata' based on various socio-economic attributes. This hierarchical arrangement leads to unequal distribution of resources, power, and prestige among members, forming a structured system of inequality. The MANE-006 course highlights that this is a fundamental aspect of social organization, impacting life chances and opportunities across different groups. ### Ke...