Class as a form of social stratification: A social class is made up of people of similar social status who regard one another as social equals.
Each class has a set of values, attitudes, beliefs and behaviour norms which differ from those of the other classes. A social class is essentially a status group which is achieved. Class is almost a universal phenomenon. Each social class has its own status in the society. Status is associated with prestige. A social class is relatively a stable group. Social class represent an open social system. An open class system in one in which vertical social mobility is possible.
Example : Within this system, individuals can move from one class to another through hard work, education and skills. Ownership of wealth and occupation are the chief criteria of class differences but education, hereditary, prestige, group participation, self identification and recognition by others, also play an important role in class distinction.
Gender as a form of social stratification: Gender stratification refers to social ranking, where men typically inhabit higher statuses than women. A common general definition of gender stratification refers to the unequal distribution of wealth, power and privilege between the two sexes. Throughout the world, most societies allocate fewer resources to women than men. Almost all societies are characterized by sexism. Sexism is the belief that one sex is superior than the other. Although, societies have been believing in the superiority of men over women and therefore have been dominating women. This male dominance is supported further by patriarchy. The process of socialization is gendered and creates gender hierarchy.
Example : Boys are given toy cars or lego sets or bat and ball to play whereas girls are given household sets, medical sets, dolls, etc.
