Sociology Concepts and Theories

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Class System

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A flexible system where people can move up or down the social ladder based on achievement.

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Functionalist Theory of Stratification

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The idea that social roles and inequalities exist to keep society running smoothly.

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Horizontal Mobility

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A change in job or position without a change in class status.

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Intergenerational Mobility

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A change in social class from one generation to the next.

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Karl Marx's Conflict Theory

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The theory that society is shaped by a struggle between the powerful (haves) and powerless (have-nots).

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Max Weber's Theory of Power

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A view of power as rooted in economic relationships and social prestige, not just wealth.

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Open System

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A class system where people can move between levels based on personal effort.

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Poverty

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The condition of lacking enough money to meet basic needs such as food, shelter, and healthcare.

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Social Mobility

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The ability to move up or down in a society's class system.

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Social Stratification

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The division of society into ranked groups based on wealth, power, and prestige.