How does social stratification manifest in different cultures?

The manifestation of social stratification varies widely among different cultures, and option B accurately reflects this complexity. Social stratification refers to the hierarchical organization of individuals in a society, often based on various factors including class, caste, race, gender, and economic status. This stratification can significantly influence individuals’ access to resources such as education, healthcare, and employment opportunities, thus shaping their life chances and social mobility.

In many cultures, these stratified systems can be deeply embedded in social norms, traditions, and institutional frameworks. For instance, in caste-based societies, individuals may be born into a particular caste that distinctly impacts their social interactions and economic opportunities. Similarly, in societies with pronounced class distinctions, socioeconomic status can dictate the level of privilege experienced by individuals.

The other options provided do not capture the nuanced reality of social stratification effectively. The assertion that it is uniform across all societies overlooks the vast diversity in how stratification operates in various cultural contexts. Claiming it is unrelated to cultural practices ignores the crucial role that cultural values and beliefs play in shaping social hierarchies. Additionally, stating that it only exists in modern societies fails to acknowledge the historical and ongoing presence of social hierarchies in traditional and pre-modern societies as well. Thus, the