Caste System Vs. Class System

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Introduction to Sociology 144, Section 2 Professor Beth Milne September 1, 2010 Every society stratifies its members there are four principles that explain social stratification existence. First, social stratification is a characteristic of society and not merely of individuals; second, social stratification is universal. Third, it persists over generations. And, fourth, it is supported by patterns of beliefs (Macionis p. 242). In addition, in every society of the world, gender is a basis for stratifying people. In my opinion, stratification is very necessary and only the person on the losing end would disagree. People are either denied or allowed access to the good things offered by their society (Heslin p. 186). Unlike Karl Marx, I have a Functionalist view on stratification I believe that a qualified position in society requires qualified people. I believe it is important to have the bourgeoisie and the proletariat that is how society maintains operations through property, power, and prestige. For instance, the example on p 199 in our text referencing the College president being more important than other students are because the president’s decision affects a large number of people, including many students. I believe it is important to have the bourgeoisie and the proletariat that is how society maintains operations through property, power, and prestige. India provides the best example of a caste system, and the United States class system. These evil twins each have their place in society. They both are complex defense systems against equality; however, they both have important differences. India’s caste system has been in existence for almost 3,000 years. The United States had a caste system until the emancipation of the slaves. Both India and the US status’ were/are built on ascribe status. In India the lines are drawn between people are

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