In a country that prides itself on nationalism, the poor mistreatment of Aboriginal people in their communities does not express the idea of Canadian equality. “Popular usages of race have been based on the assumption that a race is a grouping or classification based on genetic variations in physical appearance, particularly skin colour” (Murry, Linden, and Kendall, 2014, p.274). Race minorities like Aboriginals are already at an unfair disadvantage because of being a minoritiy in Canada. A majority has the option to abuse its power or help those minorities, making equality possible (Murry.2014, p.276). People stereotype a whole minority as one type of people even if its not true (Murry, 2014, p.277).
Social inequality and social stratification, according to this view, lead to a meritocracy based on ability. Conflict theorists, on the other hand, view inequality as resulting from groups with power dominating less powerful groups. They believe that social inequality prevents and hinders societal progress as those in power repress the powerless people in order to maintain the status quo. Positions are important so long as those in power consider them to be significant. Gender is seen closely related to the roles and behavior assigned to women and men based on their sexual differences.
This assignment I will outline the concept of an unequal society, in addition I will include prejudice, stereotype, labelling and discrimination. In today’s society a population of individuals are treated unequally or is an individual contributing to unfair treatment, in which they are treating them differently due to their race, gender, social class, sexuality or beliefs. In addition In the UK there is a major gap between the rich and the poor, society is divided and the rich share together and leave the poor with little stash left over. Also social inequality is also identified as when opportunities, different social position or rewards are unequal. Prejudice is when an individual is judged by aspects which do not relate to them at all.
In other words, dominant social groups oppress or control lower ones, and it is extremely problematic to change social class and status. Many would disagree and claim that men make their luck through hard- working and talents. However, according to Marx, social class which the person was born in restricts individuals’ opportunities. That is not only does luck determine chance
Gender inequality refers to disparity between individuals due to gender. Gender is constructed both socially through social interactions as well as biologically through chromosomes, brain structure, and hormonal differences. It is the differences in the status, power and prestige women and men have in groups, collectivises and societies. An unequal share in the distribution of power and influence between men and women. Unequal opportunities for financial independence through work or through setting up businesses.
So what causes this worldwide dilemma? Primary factors that lead to poverty comprises of overpopulation, lack of knowledge and competence, unemployment and high standards of living. These are not all the causes but these are some of the leading causes. One of the lead causes of poverty is overpopulation. A certain place can only cater a certain amount of people.
Social divisions are: class, race, disability, identify, gender and geographical environment, they are often problematic to individuals, groups and communities. Each Government which has come into power has tried to eradicate poverty, poor health, poor communities, discrimination and prejudice towards certain individuals and groups (Alcock, 2008). Social exclusion, which excludes people from society, can be categorised into people who are, ex offenders, homeless, elderly, youths, children, single parents, people with a disability, and/ or mental health issues, asylum seekers, communities and neighbourhoods. One interpretation of social exclusion comes from the European Commission’s recent Joint Report ,which states ‘social exclusion is a process where individuals are made to feel pushed out and prevented from participating in society, due to poverty or lack of education. This may result in discrimination, resulting in exclusion from jobs, an income, limited education, lack of social and community opportunities and possibly feeling powerless’ (Europa, 2003).
Within the social sciences, the conceptualization of sexism depends upon the basic assumptions about human nature, society, and their relationship which underlie current theories about society and social behavior; theories vary in the emphasis given to either human nature or to society. If priority is given to human nature, persons are considered to have inherent traits such as selfishness, competitiveness, and utilitarianism. Social relations and institutions are viewed, consequently, as products of those individual traits. In this context,, men and women are considered to have innate traits that make them different from each other. For example, while.males are aggressive, strong, instrumental, etc., females are weak, submissive, affective, nurturant, etc.
What is Social Inequality? Social inequality is characterized by the existence of unequal opportunities and rewards for different social positions or statuses within a group or society. It contains structured and recurrent patterns of unequal distributions of goods, wealth, opportunities, rewards, and punishments. There are two main ways to measure social inequality: inequality of conditions, and inequality of opportunities. Inequality of conditions refers to the unequal distribution of income, wealth and material goods.
There are many different types of social inequality. In order for something to be considered inequitable, there must be differences in benefits based on some perceived different. Inequality may be based on gender, cultural practices, or race. Some sociologists believe that social inequality leads to crime. Let us explore the various types of social inequality and see what crime, if any, it might lead to.