Q: Social stratification is claimed to contribute to maintenance of social order and stability in society. Critically assess.

Model Answer:

Social Stratification :  Social Order & Stability

Social stratification refers to the hierarchical arrangement of individuals or groups within a society based on factors such as socioeconomic status, race, and gender. It is a universal phenomenon that exists in all societies, and it is often justified as necessary for maintaining social order and stability. However, this claim has been critically assessed by various sociological thinkers who have presented different perspectives on the role of social stratification in society.

Functionalist theorists, such as Talcott Parsons and Kingsley Davis, argue that social stratification serves essential functions for society:

1. Motivation: Stratification encourages individuals to strive for higher positions, thus promoting social mobility and productivity. This, in turn, contributes to overall societal progress and stability.

2. Role allocation: It helps in efficiently allocating individuals to different social roles based on their abilities and qualifications, ensuring that the most capable individuals occupy the most important positions.

3. Social integration: Shared values and norms associated with different strata can foster a sense of collective identity and social cohesion.

4. Reward system: Stratification provides a system of rewards that incentivizes individuals to perform their roles effectively, thereby maintaining social order.

However, this functionalist perspective has been critiqued by conflict theorists like Karl Marx and Max Weber:

1. Exploitation and inequality: Stratification often leads to the exploitation of lower classes by the elite, perpetuating social inequalities and creating tensions rather than stability.

2. False consciousness: Marx argued that the ruling class uses ideology to maintain their dominance, creating a false sense of order that masks underlying conflicts.

3. Power dynamics: Weber emphasized that stratification is not just about economics but also involves status and power, which can lead to social conflicts and instability.

4. Social exclusion: Stratification can result in the marginalization of certain groups, leading to social fragmentation rather than cohesion.

Empirical evidence suggests a mixed picture. While some degree of stratification may provide structure and motivation, excessive inequality has been linked to social unrest, as seen in historical revolutions and contemporary protest movements.

In conclusion, while social stratification may contribute to social order in some ways, its role in maintaining stability is complex and contestable. A more nuanced understanding recognizes both the functional aspects of stratification and its potential to generate conflict and instability, especially when inequalities become too pronounced.