No — structural inequalities of class, gender and ethnicity affect life chances. Learn it step by step →
Social Stratification & Inequality is a core part of GCSE Sociology. Revise the key concepts and common mistakes below, then lock them in with the free games.
Key concepts
StratificationHierarchical division of society into ranked groups based on power, wealth and status.
Functionalist stratificationDavis and Moore (1945): inequality is necessary to motivate the most talented into the most important roles.
Marxist classSociety polarised into bourgeoisie (own means of production) and proletariat (sell labour); class conflict drives history.
Weber's three PsStratification involves class (economic), status (prestige) and party (power); more nuanced than Marx.
Life chancesWeber's term for opportunities to gain valued resources (health, education, income) shaped by social position.
Gini coefficientMeasure of income inequality from 0 (perfect equality) to 1 (one person has all); UK around 0.36 (ONS).
What your exam board covers
Where Social Stratification & Inequality sits in each exam board's specification. Tap a board to see what it lists.
Questions where students often pick the tempting wrong answer — make sure you know the right one:
Is modern society a complete meritocracy?✗ Yes, anyone can succeed regardless of background.✓ No — structural inequalities of class, gender and ethnicity affect life chances.
Does social class still affect people's lives?✗ No, class has disappeared entirely.✓ Yes — it influences health, education and opportunities.
Practise Social Stratification & Inequality — free games
Test yourself with these quick revision games for this topic: