Exam 7: Stratification: Rich and Famous or Rages and Famine

Correct Answer:

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The three main assumptions of stratification are:

1. Social inequality is inevitable: This assumption suggests that some level of inequality will always exist in society, as individuals and groups will naturally have different levels of resources, opportunities, and power.

Example in the United States: The existence of a wealth gap in the United States, where a small percentage of the population holds a significant portion of the country's wealth, while a larger percentage of the population has much less wealth.

2. Social stratification is universal: This assumption suggests that social stratification exists in all societies, regardless of their size, structure, or level of development.

Example in the United States: The existence of a class system in the United States, where individuals are categorized into different social classes based on factors such as income, education, and occupation.

3. Social stratification is based on both individual achievement and ascribed characteristics: This assumption suggests that an individual's social position is influenced by both their own achievements and their ascribed characteristics, such as race, gender, and family background.

Example in the United States: The existence of racial and gender disparities in areas such as income, education, and employment opportunities, where individuals from certain racial or gender groups may face barriers to achieving the same level of success as others.