Social Stratification – Sociology Talkss 2025

Topics Covered: Inequality, Caste, Class, Race, Gender, Mobility, Meritocracy

Introduction

Social stratification means dividing people into different layers or groups in society based on things like wealth, caste, class, race, or gender. These layers often decide a person’s status, power, and opportunities in life. In simple words, stratification is like a social ladder – some people are on top, and others are below.

1. Social Inequality

Social inequality means that people do not have equal access to resources and opportunities. Some have more power, education, and money, while others have very little. Inequality exists in every society, but in some places, it is more visible and serious.

Main Causes of Inequality:

Unequal distribution of wealth and income
Discrimination based on caste, gender, or race
Lack of access to quality education and jobs
Historical and social factors

2. Caste System

The caste system is a traditional form of social stratification in India. People are born into castes and their social status is decided by it. The four main castes in Hindu society were: Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras. Below them were Dalits or 'untouchables'.

Problems with the Caste System:

Limits social mobility (people can’t easily change their status)
Discrimination and exclusion of lower castes
Untouchability and social injustice

Modern India:

Though the caste system is illegal now, its effects still remain in rural areas and even in politics, education, and marriage systems. The government uses reservations (quotas) in education and jobs to support backward castes.

3. Social Class

Class is based on economic status – how much wealth, income, and property a person has. Unlike caste, class is not fixed at birth. A person can move from one class to another (for example, from poor to rich).

Types of Classes:

Upper Class: Rich people, business owners, and top professionals
Middle Class: Educated workers, office-goers, small business owners
Lower Class: Laborers, daily wage workers, unemployed

Class Differences:

Access to good education, health, and lifestyle
Social influence and political power

4. Race and Ethnicity

Race is based on physical traits like skin color, while ethnicity is about culture, language, and traditions. Some races or ethnic groups face discrimination and are treated unfairly.

Examples:

Racism in the US against African Americans
Ethnic conflicts in countries like Rwanda, Myanmar

Importance of Equality:

Every race and ethnic group should have equal rights and respect. Discrimination harms society and breaks social unity.

5. Gender and Stratification

Gender stratification happens when men and women are treated unequally. In many societies, men are given more importance than women in areas like work, education, and decision-making.

Common Gender Issues:

Unequal pay for women
Less representation in politics and leadership
Gender-based violence

Steps Towards Gender Equality:

Education and empowerment of women
Laws against gender discrimination
Promoting women’s participation in all areas

6. Social Mobility

Social mobility means the ability of a person or family to move up or down in social status. For example, a poor student becoming a successful doctor is upward mobility. A rich person going bankrupt is downward mobility.

Types of Social Mobility:

Vertical Mobility: Moving up or down in status
Horizontal Mobility: Change in job or role without change in status

Factors Affecting Mobility:

Education and skill development
Family background and connections
Government policies and social support

7. Meritocracy

Meritocracy is a system where people succeed based on their talent, effort, and performance, not their caste, class, or gender. In an ideal meritocracy, everyone has equal opportunity to grow and achieve.

Is India a Meritocracy?

India tries to be merit-based, but social inequalities still create barriers. Reservation policies help level the playing field for backward communities, but debates around fairness continue.

Note

Social stratification is present in every society. Systems like caste and class affect people's lives deeply. While some forms of inequality are being reduced through laws and education, others still exist in subtle ways. The aim of modern society should be to ensure fairness, equality, and opportunities for all, no matter their background.

FAQs – Social Stratification (IGNOU)

Q1. What is social stratification in simple words?

It is the division of society into different groups based on wealth, caste, class, or other factors, where some people have more advantages than others.

Q2. What is the difference between caste and class?

Caste is fixed by birth and usually permanent, while class is based on money and can change over time.

Q3. What is social mobility?

Social mobility is the ability to move up or down the social ladder, based on one’s achievements or failures.

Q4. What is meritocracy?

Meritocracy is a system where people succeed based on their talent and hard work, not their caste or family background.

Q5. How does gender play a role in social stratification?

In many societies, women face discrimination and are given fewer opportunities than men in areas like work, education, and leadership.