Question

sociology
social stratification worksheet
name:
date:
instructions: read each question carefully and circle the letter of the best answer. use the information presented in mondays class to respond to each question

1. social stratification is defined as a societys system of ranking people into a hierarchy based on their socioeconomic status, power, and prestige. it is primarily about: a) individual differences in talent and effort. b) systematic, society - wide inequalities. c) personality traits and motivations. d) random chance and luck.
2. which of the following is not one of the four key principles of social stratification? a) it is a societal trait, not a reflection of individual differences. b) it is fixed and unchangeable across generations. c) it is universal but variable. d) it involves beliefs as well as inequality.
3. in a closed system of stratification, social position is determined largely by: a) individual achievement and effort. b) birth, with little to no opportunity for social mobility.
4. the most extreme form of inequality where one group is owned as property by another is known as: a) caste system b) estate system c) slavery d) meritocracy
5. what distinguishes an \open\ system of stratification, such as a class system, from a \closed\ system like a caste system? a) social standing is determined entirely by birth. b) it allows for little to no social mobility. c) it permits more social mobility based on individual achievement. d) it is the system used in all modern societies.
6. an idealized system where social standing is based purely on merit and effort is called a: a) class system b) estate system

Explanation:

1. Social stratification is about systematic, society - wide inequalities based on socioeconomic status, power, and prestige, not individual differences etc.
2. Social stratification is not fixed and unchangeable across generations as it can vary.
3. In a closed system, social position is determined by birth with little mobility.
4. Slavery is the most extreme form of inequality where one group is owned as property.
5. An open system like a class system permits more social mobility based on individual achievement compared to a closed caste system.
6. A meritocracy is an idealized system where social standing is based on merit and effort.

Answer:

1. b
2. b
3. b
4. c
5. c
6. d