Social Stratification

SOCIAL STRATIFICATION AND
SOCIAL MOBILITY IN THE
CARIBBEAN

Presenter Ms. N. Lewis

What is social Stratification?
 This

refers to the ranking of social groups

according to one or more criteria deemed important to society.
 The

ranking indicates that some groups have

more and others have less of what society values- for example, money, power and prestige. Types of stratification Systems
There are two types of stratification systems:
1. Closed system of stratification
2. Open system of stratification

Closed System of stratification
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A closed system is a rigid system with clearly demarcated boundaries
Social statuses are strictly defined and determine access to opportunities
Social position is ascribed at birth
There is no social mobility from level to the another.
An example of a closed system of stratification is the caste system in India. People are born into a caste and this determines one’s occupation, social interaction, power and education. No amount of achievement can change a persons caste.

Open System of social Stratification
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An open form of social stratification is based primarily on economic criteria, particular income.
Social position is achieved through one’s efforts
The boundaries between classes are more flexible than with the closed system.
There is opportunity for social mobility, as individuals can move up or down the class system and therefore their status can improve or decline.
The class system in modern industrial society is the best example of an open stratification system.

Social stratification Under Slavery
Cont’d
 Whites

were never apart of the lower class; only white indentured servants stained their class boundaries.  Persons of mixed ancestry and lighter colour skin were the most fortunate by virtue of their appearance.  Some were rewarded with lighter domestic duties.
 The coloured group acted as a buffer zone upholding white values and thus did not want to risk their privilege in society.