Social Stratification and Inequality Quiz

What is the primary characteristic of a closed stratification system?

• High social mobility

• Fixed social positions based on birth

• Equal distribution of wealth

• Temporary class divisions

Which of the following best defines "ascribed status"?

• A position earned through personal achievement

• A social rank assigned at birth (e.g., caste, nobility)

• A temporary role in society

• A job title acquired through education

True or False: Relative poverty is measured by comparing an individual’s resources to others in their society.

• True

• False

What term describes the inability to escape poverty due to systemic barriers?

Which factor is not a common driver of social stratification?

• Wealth

• Political affiliation

• Education

• Occupation

In which region is absolute poverty most prevalent today?

• North America

• Western Europe

• Sub-Saharan Africa

• East Asia

What is the key difference between wealth and income?

• Wealth includes assets; income is earnings from work.

• Wealth is temporary; income is permanent.

• Only income generates social mobility.

• Wealth is taxed less than income.

Explain how inherited wealth perpetuates inequality:

Which system historically enforced rigid social hierarchies through birth-based divisions?

• Feudalism

• Capitalism

• Socialism

• Meritocracy

True or False: Modern slavery no longer exists globally.

• True

• False