Social Stratification: Crash Course Sociology

The video explores social stratification, a system that categorizes and ranks people in society, affecting their life chances. It discusses the principles of stratification, including its universality and variability, and how it persists across generations. The video also covers social mobility, both vertical and horizontal, and the role of structural factors. It contrasts closed systems like caste with open systems like class, highlighting the influence of cultural beliefs. Examples from history, such as India's caste system and apartheid, illustrate these concepts. The video concludes with a discussion on meritocracy and its implications in class systems.

What are the two different paths to wealth described in the text?

How does social stratification affect life chances according to the text?

Can you explain the concept of structural social mobility?

What role do cultural beliefs play in social stratification?

What is the difference between closed and open systems of stratification?

How does the American class system differ from the caste system in India?

What are some examples of status inconsistency mentioned in the text?