Social inequality.

Almost every type of society that has ever existed has been marked by some form(s) of social inequality. Using one of the sociological theories (or theorists) you’ve learned about so far, discuss why, according to that theory, social inequality exists, and then use that theory to discuss what, if anything, you think can be done about it.

Compare and contrast one form of society (hunter-gatherer, pastoral/horticultural, agricultural, or industrial) with the post-industrial society of the United States. What are their differences? In what way do you think these differences could matter for the people who live in these societies? And do they have anything in common?

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Sample Answer

Social inequality is the unequal distribution of resources, power, and opportunities within a society. It can be based on a number of factors, including social class, race, ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation.

There are many different sociological theories that explain why social inequality exists. One of the most well-known is conflict theory. Conflict theorists argue that social inequality is the result of conflict between different groups in society. These groups compete for resources and power, and the ones who are more successful in this competition are able to maintain their position of privilege.

According to conflict theory, there is nothing that can be done to completely eliminate social inequality. However, it is possible to reduce it by redistributing resources and power more evenly. This can be done through government policies, such as affirmative action and social welfare programs.

Full Answer Section

Hunter-gatherer societies are the most basic form of human society. They are characterized by small, nomadic groups that live off of the land. These societies are typically egalitarian, with little social inequality.

Pastoral/horticultural societies are more complex than hunter-gatherer societies. They are characterized by larger groups of people who live in permanent settlements. These societies are typically more stratified, with some people having more power and resources than others.

Agricultural societies are even more complex than pastoral/horticultural societies. They are characterized by large, densely populated societies that rely on agriculture for their livelihood. These societies are typically very stratified, with a small elite at the top and a large majority of people at the bottom.

Industrial societies are the most recent form of human society. They are characterized by large, urbanized societies that rely on industry for their livelihood. These societies are typically less stratified than agricultural societies, but there is still a significant amount of social inequality.

Post-industrial societies are the most recent form of human society. They are characterized by knowledge-based economies and a service-oriented workforce. These societies are typically less stratified than industrial societies, but there is still a significant amount of social inequality.

The differences between these different forms of societies are significant. Hunter-gatherer societies are the most egalitarian, while industrial and post-industrial societies are the most stratified. The differences in social inequality between these societies can have a big impact on the lives of the people who live in them. For example, people who live in more stratified societies are more likely to experience poverty, discrimination, and other forms of social disadvantage.

Despite the differences between these different forms of societies, they also have some things in common. All of these societies are characterized by some degree of social inequality. This inequality is often based on factors such as social class, race, ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation.

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