For sociologists, one important dimension of any stratification system is the extent to which people 'are treated as members of a category, irrespective of their individual merits'.This statement suggests that sociologists are particularly interested in how _____________ are viewed and treated.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The statement is explicitly referring to the treatment of individuals based on their membership in a certain social category, regardless of their individual merits. Ascribed characteristics, such as race, gender, and social class, are examples of factors that can determine one's membership in a particular category and may result in differential treatment. Achieved statuses and status value are related to individual accomplishment and do not necessarily capture the systemic aspect of categorization and its impact on treatment. Class systems of stratification are broader frameworks for organizing society but do not necessarily capture the aspect of treating people as members of a category.

For Sociologists, One Important Dimension of Any Stratification System Is