“The function of sociology, as of every science, is to reveal that which is hidden,” is a profound quote by Pierre Bourdieu. The first step in making the world fairer and just is to expose the systems that sustain inequality. Because of its scientific nature, sociology can decipher the underlying realities of social processes. Fundamentally, sociology seeks to uncover and highlight social life’s underreported and overlooked facets. But what picture does sociology bring into the limelight about social stratification? Sociology aims to reveal how people and communities influence and shape one another. These unseen facets of a society can significantly affect people’s daily lives, so uncovering them is crucial (Sorokin, 2019). It is essential to expose the hidden light of day for all to see to improve our society and find ways to improve it. This essay will discuss the importance of uncovering what is hidden in everyday life and will focus on social stratification as a modern issue that stays hidden. It will summarize academic, newspaper, and podcast coverage of the topic and offer critical analysis. In light of this, this piece will paint the picture of social stratification as a hidden modern issue by showing why it is important to expose secrets and how doing so benefits both people and society.
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“The function of sociology, as of every science, is to reveal that which is hidden.”- Pierre Bourdieu. Why is it important to “reveal that which is hidden”? Who is this important for? Why?
Pierre Bourdieu said it best: “The function of sociology, as of every science, is to reveal that which is hidden.” Explaining the quotation, it is obvious that Bourdieu is stating that sociology has the potential to unearth facts that are not visible on the surface. For Bourdieu, sociology was an aggressive effort to expose the unthought structures beneath social agents’ physical, somatic, and thought practices (Kraus et al., 2019). He believed sociology might help us combat symbolic violence and reveal hitherto hidden spaces of autonomy. It is necessary to uncover that which is hidden since social phenomena are not always what they appear to be. Our society is only sometimes transparent, and many of the things we accept as given are the product of social constructions and pressures. Sociology, therefore, is tasked with evaluating and analyzing these social dynamics to reveal the underlying structures and processes that define society.
The structures of privilege, power, and injustice that shape our daily lives can be gained by studying the “hidden” and putting sociology to work. This knowledge helps us better understand the world and create more equitable and just societies (Sorokin, 2019). Because these unseen frameworks can have such a significant effect on our daily lives, knowing about them is crucial. Social stratification is an example of a problem often “hidden” in everyday life (Kraus et al., 2019). Since so many people and communities are affected, this problem is especially pressing in modern society. Investigating this problem is essential for two reasons: first, to understand how it impacts various demographics, and second, to increase public understanding and participation. Uncovering concealed information holds significance as it enables individuals to comprehend their surroundings more profoundly (Bell, 2019). By examining fundamental social frameworks and mechanisms, it is possible to discern the origins of disparities, authority, and subjugation within a given community. This knowledge can subsequently be acquired to establish social arrangements characterized by fairness and impartiality.
Moreover, comprehending the covert intricacies of society can enhance our ability to make well-informed decisions and implement measures to tackle social issues. This holds significance for all individuals, irrespective of their societal status or personal history (Shils, 2019). The acquisition of knowledge through the disclosure of concealed facets of a society can facilitate the comprehension of personal experiences and equip individuals with the necessary resources to navigate the intricate social milieu in which they exist (Bernstein, 2019). It is of particular significance for marginalized and oppressed cohorts who may encounter barriers to accessing equal opportunities or resources as their counterparts. These collectives can enhance their self-advocacy and establish more just social configurations by comprehending the covert social frameworks contributing to their marginalization.
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The contemporary concern of social stratification. A matter that has transpired within the previous decade
The issue of social stratification is a pertinent concern that is frequently concealed in daily existence. This pertains to the social stratification of our community, wherein individuals are categorized into distinct classes based on their varying levels of affluence, influence, and prospects. This matter persists obscured as it is frequently assumed to be an inherent aspect of the societal structure (Cole, 2022). Social stratification has significant ramifications, such as perpetuating inequality and restricting social mobility (Bernstein, 2019). Therefore, it is justifiable to assert that social stratification is a complex phenomenon encompassing a broad spectrum of social disparities, such as income, education, occupational status, and authority. Social stratification is a common phenomenon in everyday life, yet it frequently evades detection or recognition.
The escalating economic disparity within the United States is an ongoing matter of social stratification, frequently concealed in daily existence. One notable concern about social stratification that has transpired over the last decade is the increasing disparity in income between the affluent and the impoverished segments of the American population (Shils, 2019). Although widely recognized, the issue of inequality is frequently concealed in daily existence due to a need for more awareness among individuals regarding its magnitude and the diverse groups it impacts.
The cultural narrative that America is a land of opportunity and that success can be achieved through hard work contributes to the concealment of this issue. The account above fails to acknowledge the mounting challenges associated with social and economic advancement, compounded by underlying structural issues such as institutionalized racism, inequitable educational opportunities, and prejudiced recruitment procedures, all of which exacerbate the expanding income disparity (Cole, 2022).
The disclosure of this matter holds great significance as it carries substantial implications for both individuals and the broader community. The widening disparity in income exacerbates economic inequality, constrains social mobility, and perpetuates social stratification (Kallschmidt & Eaton, 2019). Furthermore, it is noteworthy that this phenomenon adversely impacts individuals’ well-being, academic attainment, and communal integration.
The demographic cohorts that experience the most significant impact from this matter are those from the low-income and working-class strata, with a particular emphasis on individuals from minority racial groups and the female gender. The groups above are at a higher risk of economic hardship, joblessness, and limited essential amenities, such as medical care and educational opportunities (Cole, 2022). Moreover, individuals belonging to this group exhibit a higher probability of facing marginalization and exclusion from the dominant societal norms, coupled with an increased likelihood of encountering stigmatization and discriminatory practices.
The matter pertains to various notions we have delved into over the semester, encompassing power dynamics, subjugation, and dominant cultural influence. The persistence of the income disparity is sustained by influential entities, such as corporations and the political ruling class, who reap advantages from upholding the existing state of affairs (Kallschmidt & Eaton, 2019). The statement also denotes the prevalence of the dominant ideology that attributes success to personal endeavor and aptitude rather than systemic elements such as bias and inequitable resource allocation. The matter above illustrates how economic disparity can function as a mode of subjugation that sustains social hierarchy and marginalization. Economic inequality pertains to the uneven distribution of financial resources and earnings across various societal factions. Income inequality has been a longstanding concern, but it has experienced a marked escalation in recent decades, with a disproportionate concentration of wealth among the top 1% of earners.
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One academic article, newspaper article, and podcast or radio clip pertain to the selected issue (social stratification).
Scholarly article:
Summary of the Source:
The article titled “Social stratification processes and social cooperation during globalization,” authored by Sharipov (2020) investigates the effects of globalization on social stratification and cooperation. The article presents a comprehensive analysis of social stratification, characterizing it as a system of social organization that arranges individuals into a hierarchical structure based on diverse determinants, including income, education, occupation, and social standing. The author expounds on the impact of globalization on stratification processes, highlighting its role in exacerbating inequality at the individual and national levels. This analysis explores the correlation between social stratification and cooperation within societies while examining globalization’s impact on societal stratification patterns. The study also analyzes the effects of globalization on social stratification and its influence on the collective capacity of societies. According to Sharipov, mitigating the adverse impact of social stratification necessitates cooperation, and globalization has opened up novel prospects for international collaboration. The author posits that the proliferation of global capitalism and the growing prevalence of transnational corporations have played a role in exacerbating societal disparities and undermining communal unity. Sharipov underscores that globalization has enabled the emergence of novel modes of social collaboration, such as expanding civil society and establishing new social movements.
Critique:
Assumptions:
The author of the critique contends that Sharipov’s argument regarding the relationship between globalization and social stratification and inequality lacks acknowledgment of other contributing factors, including historical legacies, cultural differences, and political systems. The author posits that social cooperation is a crucial remedy to social stratification. However, the author needs to sufficiently consider the potential constraints of collaboration and the potential intergroup conflicts that may arise. An additional criticism of the article is its presupposition that social stratification is exclusively a consequence of globalization, thereby disregarding the influence of historical and cultural elements in shaping stratification. The discourse must also acknowledge power dynamics’ significance in sustaining societal inequity. In addition, the article would benefit from a more comprehensive exploration of viable strategies to mitigate inequality and foster collaboration instead of solely asserting the imperative of such measures.
What is left out:
The article’s analysis of social stratification needs to be completed as it fails to comprehensively examine the multifaceted nature of this phenomenon and its diverse manifestations across various societies. Furthermore, Sharipov’s analysis needs to adequately consider the influence of power dynamics and individual agency in shaping social connections and disparities. The author needs to furnish concrete instances of how novel modes of social collaboration have effectively tackled issues of social stratification and inequality. Moreover, the discourse needs to acknowledge the influence of culture on social stratification and the potential advantages that cultural interchange may offer societies. Furthermore, the potential benefits of stratification in specific contexts are not considered.
What Comprises the Contents?
Sharipov presents an all-encompassing analysis of the diverse manners in which globalization has impacted social stratification and social cooperation. The author also highlights the significance of comprehending the worldwide economic structure to grasp the fundamental reasons behind inequality and the viable remedies to these predicaments. Moreover, the discourse is beneficial in its analysis of the influence of globalization on the stratification and cooperation of societies. The text offers a valuable synopsis and a distinct correlation between stratification and collaboration.
New Perspective:
In his analysis, Sharipov underscores the prospective advantages of globalization in fostering social collaboration while underscoring the imperative of fortifying civil society and social movements to mitigate the adverse impacts of globalization on social stratification. Additionally, he advocates for a fairer allocation of resources and opportunities to foster social unity.
The author posits that the phenomenon of globalization has had a significant impact on the stratification and cooperative dynamics of societies. The point above holds considerable importance as it aids in elucidating the varying degrees of success that different organizations achieve regarding cooperation and stratification.
Agreement and Disagreement:
The assertion posited by Sharipov regarding the exacerbation of social stratification and inequality in developing nations as a result of globalization is one with which I concur. I concur with his emphasis on the significance of social cooperation and civil society in tackling these concerns. The author’s perspective is that Sharipov’s work could have benefited from additional specific illustrations of efficacious social collaboration endeavors and a more in-depth analysis of the potential constraints on cooperation when confronted with competing interests and power differentials. The article presents a constructive critique of social stratification and globalization concepts. The author presents a novel viewpoint by emphasizing the possibility of collaboration within the framework of globalization. Even so, confident readers may hold a divergent perspective from Sharipov’s optimistic view regarding the plausibility of global association amidst globalization and societal differentiation.
New Questions:
Upon perusing Sharipov’s scholarly article, I am left with inquiries regarding the precise methodologies through which social cooperation can efficaciously tackle social stratification and inequality. Examining cultural disparities and past legacies in shaping social differences and relationships is an area of interest for me. Furthermore, I aim to explore the feasibility of alternative economic systems in mitigating the underlying factors contributing to social stratification and inequality. Additional inquiries emerge: What precise measures and initiatives can be implemented to foster global collaboration and mitigate social inequality? How can the integration of historical and cultural elements be integrated into dialogues on social stratification and globalization? What is the function of power in sustaining social disparities?
Newspaper
Summary:
The newspaper article entitled “Examining the Income Disparity Between the Wealthy and Impoverished: A Study Reveals Escalating Disparities and Lethal Consequences,” authored by Lola Fadulu and published in the New York Times on September 10, 2019, presents findings from a Government Accountability Office (GAO) investigation on the income gap between affluent and disadvantaged individuals in the United States. According to the research, there has been a surge in income inequality since the 1980s, and it has attained unprecedented heights. The report above discloses that income inequality has significant ramifications, such as decreased economic mobility and shortened lifespans. The article underscores policymakers’ need to tackle income inequality by implementing policies that bolster the middle-class and low-income populace.
Critique:
Assumptions:
The newspaper posits the notion that income inequality is a matter that requires attention yet refrains from delving into alternative viewpoints on the matter. The statement presupposes the capacity and inclination of policymakers to tackle the issue of income inequality while neglecting to recognize the impact of political and economic factors on policy-making determinations. Finally, the newspaper posits a correlation between the expanding income disparity and the inferior health outcomes experienced by individuals with lower incomes. The statement above is a plausible inference supported by the information presented in the article. Nevertheless, the article neglects to account for alternative variables that could influence health inequalities, such as the availability of medical services and nutritious sustenance.
What is left out?
The newspaper article’s analysis of income inequality lacks adequate attention to underlying factors, such as systemic elements like structural racism and gender discrimination, as well as the impact of corporate power on political processes. Furthermore, the discourse needs to address potential alternative remedies for the issue of unequal distribution of wealth, such as the implementation of a progressive tax system or the provision of a universal basic income.
What is encompassed?
The article presents a brief overview of the GAO investigation and its conclusions. The text sheds light on the adverse effects of income disparity and advocates for policy measures to tackle the problem.
New perspective:
This article serves as a poignant reminder of the lethal consequences of disparities in income and highlights the pressing necessity for policymakers to implement measures to redress this matter. The statement also illuminates the constraints of economic expansion as a remedy for income disparity.
Agreement/disagreement:
I concur with the stance presented in the newspaper that income inequality is a significant issue that requires attention. I agree with the article’s emphasis on the necessity for policymakers to implement measures that support middle and low-income individuals. Notwithstanding, the article could have presented a more detailed examination of the underlying factors contributing to income inequality and delved into alternative policy remedies.
New questions:
Upon perusing the article, inquiries arise regarding the plausible contribution of alternative economic frameworks in mitigating income disparity, such as laborer cooperatives or communal land trusts. The author desires to investigate the interrelationships between income inequality and other types of social stratification, including but not limited to gender and racial inequality. Ultimately, this inquiry aims to examine the impact of popular mobilization and social movements in advocating for policy remedies to address the issue of income inequality. The article offers valuable perspectives on the increasing income disparity in the United States. The author of the report highlights the lethal ramifications of this gap. It is imperative to acknowledge that this disparity is not solely an economic concern but also a matter of public health. The present article also prompts an inquiry into how we can tackle the systemic factors fueling the expanding disparity in income. Exploration of this inquiry is necessary to mitigate the health disparities associated with income disparities.
Podcast
A concise overview of the performance.
The podcast titled “Social Inequality and Other High-Yield Sociology” by The MCAT Podcast focuses on the topic of social stratification. The show hosts Bryan Schnedeker and Ryan Gray introduce societal inequality and comprehensively analyze its manifestations and underlying factors. Moreover, the researchers examine the impacts of societal disparities, particularly on well-being and upward social movement, and contemplate certain potential solutions.
A concise evaluation of the auditory component.
The podcast’s discussion of social inequality operates under the premise that it is a significant and widespread societal concern that requires attention. The topic of social stratification is widely acknowledged as a complex phenomenon deeply ingrained in society’s structure and carries significant implications for individuals and groups.
The debate should have addressed the topic of intersectionality in social stratification. The hosts allude to topics related to race, gender, and sexuality but do not expound on how these intersecting identities can intensify and amplify societal disparities. Furthermore, the discourse needs to consider the impact of cultural and social factors on social stratification. While the host briefly touches upon the effects of race and ethnicity on social inequality, the bulk of the discourse revolves around the impact of economic and educational factors. The importance of this observation stems from the recognition that cultural and social variables can exert a considerable impact on the development of social stratification.
Utilizing empirical evidence and concrete illustrations from actuality to showcase the impact of social disparity on the individual and the broader community constitutes a valuable contribution to the discourse. The presenters briefly summarize the various forms of social disparity and their interconnections.
The hosts posit a fresh perspective, contending that societal disparities are not solely a matter of morality or ethics but also a pragmatic concern. The argument put forth is that reducing social inequality has the potential to improve social mobility, health outcomes, and economic development. Moreover, the presenter does not offer a novel viewpoint regarding social stratification. Instead, they thoroughly expound on the subject, utilizing diverse sociological frameworks and empirical investigations.
I agree with the arguments put forth by the hosts about the need to address social inequality, particularly given its impact on social mobility and health outcomes. They could have done more research on how different types of social inequality intersect and feed off one another. In general, I concur with the assertions made by the presenter regarding social inequality and its multifaceted manifestations. The speaker provides a refined and evidence-based presentation on the topic, highlighting the complexity of the subject matter.
Upon listening to the podcast, several concerns arise regarding the practical approaches that can be taken to mitigate social inequality, particularly in the domains of healthcare and education. What measures can be taken to ensure that solutions addressing societal inequality are equitable and sustainable in the long run? What part can people, groups, and organizations play in addressing societal inequality?
References
Bell, D. (2019). The coming of post-industrial society. In Social stratification (pp. 805-817). Routledge. https://www.taylorfrancis.com/chapters/edit/10.4324/9780429306419-124/coming-post-industrial-society-daniel-bell
Bernstein, B. B. (2019). Social class, language, and socialization. In Linguistics and adjacent arts and sciences (pp. 1545-1562). De Gruyter Mouton. https://www.degruyter.com/document/doi/10.1515/9783110811278-003/html?lang=en
Cole, M. (Ed.). (2022). Education, equality and human rights: issues of gender, ‘race,’ sexuality, disability, and social class. Taylor & Francis. https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=Wph8EAAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PT8&dq=social+stratification&ots=A9LmS4bj70&sig=DlXoUTpFogQpXOiOov0oXQWGB7Y
Fadulu, L. (2019, September 10). Study Shows Income Gap Between Rich and Poor Keeps Growing, With Deadly Effects. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2019/09/10/us/politics/gao-income-gap-rich-poor.html
Kallschmidt, A. M., & Eaton, A. A. (2019). Are lower social class origins stigmatized at work? A qualitative study of social class concealment and disclosure among white men employees who experienced upward mobility. Journal of Vocational Behavior, 113, 115-128. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0001879118300940
Kraus, M. W., Callaghan, B., & Ondish, P. (2019). Social class as culture. https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2019-00292-027
Sharipov, A. Z. (2020). Social stratification processes and social cooperation during globalization. Scientific and Technical Journal of Namangan Institute of Engineering and Technology, 2(4), 240-247. https://namdu.researchcommons.org/journal/vol2/iss4/44/
Shils, E. (2019). Deference. In Social stratification (pp. 247-254). Routledge. https://www.taylorfrancis.com/chapters/edit/10.4324/9780429306419-40/deference-edward-shils
Sorokin, P. A. (2019). Social and cultural mobility. In Social Stratification (pp. 303-308). Routledge. https://www.taylorfrancis.com/chapters/edit/10.4324/9780429306419-52/social-cultural-mobility-pitirim-sorokin
The MCAT Podcast. (n.d.). 157-Social Inequality and Other High-Yield Sociology. [Audio podcast]. Retrieved from https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/157-social-inequality-and-other-high-yield-sociology/id1140333666?i=1000446355809
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