Introduction to Sociology / Stratification / Lee Na Kyung

1. Summary

In the United States, stratification has intensified the gap between rich and poor. The origin of inequality can be seen in the transition from the hunter / gatherer society to the horticultural / pastoralist society. In the hunter / gatherer society, people do almost the same thing and the division of labor is small, but as the horticultural / pastoralist society started, inequality arose. The concept of private property was deepest in the fifteenth century, and the inequality deepened. The idea of ​​social equality emerged in Hobbes and Locke's books in the 17th and 18th centuries. Sociologist Joel Charon shows the reason for the persistence of inequality in society. First, the wealthy authorities protect the system of inequality. They support unequal institutions to maintain their status. Second, culture teaches acceptance of inequality. Third, people conform and accept their position in society. Finally, police, courts and prisons protect inequalities.

2. New / Interesting things

I have always been interested in social inequality. So this theme was very impressive and interesting. And I have been thinking a lot about ways to solve social inequality, but I do not know the origins of social inequality. Therefore, it was good to learn about the origin of social inequality at this opportunity.

3. Discussion Point

I learned about the social stratification of the United States and social inequality in the world through this document. As I studied this material, I wanted to learn more about the stratification of Korean society. There are many similarities with the United States society’s, but I would like to know what characteristics of the stratification of Korean society are different from other countries.