Sociological Theories of Stratification

Functionalism maintains that society works best when there is a sense of order and harmony, which is achieved through social stratification.
Within this perspective, inequalities exist due to different roles requiring different skills and reward systems; this, in turn, ensures that all jobs within society are filled.
Davis and Moore argue that the most important positions in society need to be filled by the most skilled individuals, who should receive the greatest rewards.
Vastly divergent rewards and resources are warranted because they provide an incentive for people to strive towards higher societal roles.
Critics argue that functionalism fails to address the power relations that often influence who has access to certain roles and resources.

Marxist theory views stratification as an outcome of capitalism, which divides society into two contrasting classes: the bourgeoisie (owners of means of production) and proletariat (labour force).
According to Marx, class struggle is inherent in capitalist societies because the bourgeoisie exploit the proletariat for their own gains.
Marx predicted a revolution where the proletariat would overthrow the bourgeoisie and establish a classless society.
Notably, neo-Marxists argue for a more complex class structure, involving other elements such as status and power.
Critics suggest that societies have more than just economic determinant factors and class can be influenced by factors such as gender and race.

Weber’s model of stratification is multifaceted and based on three dimensions: class, status, and power.
According to Weber, class refers to an individual’s economic position in society, such as their occupation and income.
Status refers to an individual’s prestige, or the respect and admiration they command within society.
Power, or ‘party’, refers to the extent to which individuals can implement their will, even against resistance from others.
Critics suggest that Weber’s theory is difficult to apply practically because it’s hard to measure and define status and power.

Feminist theories of stratification focus on gender as one of the most significant sources of social inequality.
Liberal feminists argue that through legal changes and political lobbying, gender inequality can be overcome.
Radical feminists view patriarchy – the societal dominance of men – as the root of gender inequality, suggesting radical change is necessary for equality.
Intersectional feminists argue that other aspects such as class, race, and sexuality also significantly affect an individual’s position in society and must be considered concurrently.
Critics contend that feminist theories sometimes fail to consider other forms of stratification, such as social class and race.