Chapter 8 : Stratification, Class and Inequality

1. Discuss the primary characteristics and differences between the following types of stratification systems: slave, caste, and class systems. From your knowledge of history, place the American South, from after the Civil War until World War II, within these stratification types. Which type best explains that society? Defend your position.

2. In discussing differences in terms of wealth, the authors of your text note that net financial assets are far lower for minority groups than for whites. Discuss the reasons for the racial disparity in wealth and speculate about whether or not the gap can be closed.

3. Based on discussion in your text , draw a picture of the social class structure of your own community. In your response make reference to the specific social classes found there and provide descriptive evidence to support your claims.

4. Using occupation and occupational change as your mobility criteria, view the social mobility within your family for three generations. As you discuss the differences in jobs among your grandfather, father, and you apply all these terms correctly: structural and exchange mobility, vertical and horizontal mobility , upward and downward mobility , intragenerational and intergenerational mobility. Explain fully why you think people in your family have moved up, moved down, or remained at the same status level.

5. While the welfare reforms of the late 1990s were successful in reducing the number of welfare recipients, critics of these initiatives have expressed concerns about whether the people who leav e the welfare rolls really mak e it. Summarize both sides of this issue and then indicate which side you are on and why.

6. Karl Marx and Max Weber are described as having sharply differing views of social stratification. Explain each person's theory and how they diverge and clash. Are there any convergences? How would you rate the other stratification theorists discussed in this chapter: Davis and Moore, Erik Wright, and Frank Parkin, as latter-day Marxists or Weberians? Explain your answers.

Back to Top