Social stratification and mobility are important elements in the existence of any society. Let's try to consider these definitions in more detail. Social stratification is a certain hierarchical system, a vertical formed from various classes and segments of the population. Even in ancient times, people noticed that the division of labor leads to greater productivity. Various statuses and classes of people appeared. That is, social inequality arose , which is the basis of stratification. However, not all so simple.
Social stratification and mobility is a system whose structure is quite variable. Karl Marx believed that the basis for the emergence of the vertical is ownership of property. He did not divide people into three, as is now commonly believed, but into two main layers. In his writings, he singled out the class of owners, in particular, the bourgeoisie, slave owners and feudal lords, as well as the proletariat, where people who sell their labor can be attributed. Over time, Karl Marx's approach to vertical theory began to be considered quite narrow and not so universal.
The theory of social stratification and social mobility was also developed by M. Weber. He significantly expanded the number of signs, focusing on which a person can be attributed to a particular class. In particular, these are criteria such as income level, ownership of property, membership in political parties, social prestige.
The vertical in question is supported by various mechanisms. In the past, they were tough enough. The transition from one class to another was almost impossible. The principle of continuity was respected. For example, a person born in a slave's family could only become a slave. At the moment, social stratification and mobility are characterized by milder mechanisms. In the modern world, a person can move from one class to another without obstacles. However, such a transition will require a lot of effort. In particular, this is purposefulness, self-improvement, certain abilities, and educational level.
It is worth noting that a strong social stratification can lead to a constant increase in tension in the poorest sections of society, and, as a consequence, to revolutions. To prevent such negative situations, there is a universal mechanism - the predominance of the middle class. That is, with a large percentage of people who are generally satisfied with their economic situation, the risk of revolutions is reduced due to the smaller number of dissatisfied.
Social stratification and social mobility can vary in structure. However, there are common features. Social mobility is a person’s change in his social status. It is divided into two main categories. The vertical level can be either upward or downward. For example, career advancement, or the ruin of a company. The horizontal level indicates the movement of the individual within the same social group. For example, a change of profession, moving to another city.
Mobility can be divided according to another principle. There are also two main categories. Intergenerational mobility is a change in one's social status in relation to parents. For example, a person from a poor family becomes a banker. There is also intergenerational mobility. This definition refers to a change in the status of an individual during its lifetime. It can also be a transition from intellectual activity to physical activity, or vice versa.
In general, social stratification and mobility is a fairly positive phenomenon due to the appearance of incentives for people to develop and grow professionally.