Contemporary Theory Stratification Essay examples

A major concern of modern-day theory would be the impacts of stratification within society. Social stratification is defined as the â€Å"hierarchical or vertical division of society according to rank, caste, or class† (Dictionary.com 2014). Social stratification can be operationally defined â€Å"as the systematically unequal distribution of power, wealth, and status (Bowles 2013; Kerbo 2000). Stratification sets up that all known societies past and present â€Å"distribute its scarce and demanded goods and services unequally† (Grusky, Ku, and Szelenyi 2008; Tumin 1953). Kingsley Davis and Wilbert Moore (1945) establish a main function of stratification; which can be explained by the â€Å"requirement faced by any society of placing and motivating†¦show more content†¦In any society, there are a number of tasks must be accomplished in order for society to function properly. Thus, stratification within a society insures that â€Å"the most important position s are conscientiously filled by those considered qualified† (Davis and Moore 1945). Whether the society is, simple or complex, it must differentiate members of society in â€Å"terms of prestige and esteem,† ushering in certain forms of â€Å"institutionalized inequality† (Davis and Moore 1945; Tumin 1953). Davis and Moores central argument of social stratification is characterized through the analysis of Melvin M. Tumin (1953); First, particular positions within society have more important functions than others, because they require specialized skills in order to appropriate their position. Second, the mentioned specialized skills are limited, as individual in society have talents that are trainable into skills. Third, â€Å"the conversion of talents into skills† requires a period in which sacrifices, in one form or another, are made by those individuals in training. Fourth, The individual who undergoes specialized training through â€Å"sacrifices and acquired training, the future position must carry an inducement value in the form of privileges and disproportionate access to scarce and desired rewards†. Fifth, the â€Å"scarce and desired goods consist of the rightsShow MoreRelatedAn Insight Into Contemporary British And Indian Societies980 Words   |  4 PagesWith reference to contemporary Britain and one other society, explain ways in which the societies are held together through common cultures but are also unequal and divided. This essay will demonstrate some key concepts in sociology by providing an insight into how contemporary British and Indian societies have held together through common cultures but are unequal and divided. 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