The Concept of Social Stratification

Social stratification refers to the division of large social groups into sinaller groups
based on categories determined by economics. Members of society are arranged in a
hierarchy based on their access to or control over basic economic resources. Social
stratification gives rise to inequality in societ-v, as members are distinguished by
their membership in and relation to social groups and categories. Sociologists relate
social skatification to social standing. In larger uaditional societies and in several
countries today, the common bases of social stratification include wealth, property,
access to material and cultural goods, and access to political power. Race, gender, and
religion are other identifiable bases of social stratification; and the influence of social
stratification on politics and social relations differs from society to society.
Related to the concept of social stratification and inequality is social exclusion.
This refers to the process by which individuals are cut off from full invotrvement in the
wider circles of society. People who are socially excluded due to poor housing, lack of
employment, irtferior schools, or limited transportation, may lack opportunities for
self-improvement. For instance, horneless people are among the most marginalized
in society, and their situation deprives them of the most basic amenities such as
adequate shelter, food, and security. In the Philippines, the homeless are the most
vulnerable and exploited groups in society and often have limited social, political,
and economic opportunities.

Systems of Stratification

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' Sociologists distinguish between two priman. systems of stratification, namely the
closed and open systems. Closed systems impose rigid boundaries between social
groups and limit interactions among members who belong to different social groups
or occupy different levels in the social hierarchy. This system is also resistant to
change, particularly in the social roles of its members. On the other hand, stratification
in an open system is based on achievement, allowing more flexibility in social roles,
increased social mobility, and better interaction among social groups and classes.
Caste systems are closed stratification systems because people are unable to
change their social standing. Caste systems promote belief in fate, destiny, and the
will of a higher spiritual power rather than the promotion of individual freedom.
People born into a caste society are socialized to accept their social standing. People
are born into their social standing and will permanently remain in it throughout their
lives. A caste system, therefore, prlomotes social inequality. Peopie are assigned
occupations regardless of their talents, interests, or potential. There are virtuaily no
opportunities to improve one's social position.

1g+ Unir 1t Culturol, Sociol, ond Polticol Development