6.2 What Is Stratification?

LO 6.2: Distinguish between inequality, equality, and equity.

Varying student-to-counselor ratios can lead to vastly different student outcomes. Some students get more help than others and those who can afford, can hire private counselors. Such differences are one reason sociologists study stratification. Stratification is how group’s systematically and inequitably distribute power, status, and resources. A related term, inequality, refers to the condition and processes by which members of society have different access to resources such as capital, status, and power. Inequality is systematically stratified. It is not random or a result solely of individual talent or effort. Instead, it is a result of the interaction of talent or effort, group membership (such as class, race, or gender), and the structure of society which values some talents and groups more than others.

Inequality Harms Some Groups More Than Others.

While inequality harms everyone, some groups face considerable harm and exclusion while others benefit. For example, one experimental study concluded that employers value the same criteria differently when assessing job applications from men and women (Quadlin, 2018). Specifically, Quadlin (2018) found that employers viewed high-achieving women (with high GPAs) as less likable. Therefore, they were less willing to hire them. In contrast, employers did not penalize applicants who were high-achieving men. Instead, they were rewarded with more callbacks.

This study provided more evidence of discrimination toward women in employment. Any group that is harmed by inequality is systematically denied access to resources like capital, status, and power. In this example, employers more often denied access to jobs to women compared to men. This systematic lack of access to resources is a key feature of stratification.