The word stratification comes from strata or layers, as in the way different rock are piled on top of one another to form rock strata. Social stratification refers to the divisions of society into a pattern of layers or strata made up of a hierarchy of social groups. In this essay I will look at sociological theories presented by Marx and functionalism, considering the degree to which it can be used to explain the actions of individuals and groups within a society. .
Davis & Moore argue that stratification makes an important contribution to social order, and therefore inequality is seen as "beneficial, positive and necessary". A society must ensure that the most functionally important roles are filled by those most talented and efficient, with education and stratification allowing individuals to have an occupation that best suits their abilities. Whilst they claim that a meritocratic society gives high reward (financially and status-wise) to motivate the most gifted and inequality means those disadvantaged wish to improve on their position, there is much resentment over "fat-cat" pay packets in today's world. Davis & Moore neglect these dysfunction's of stratification - for example reward possibly being due to unjust economic and political power, and that poverty negatively impacts education and lifestyle.
Women have been harshly disadvantaged in employment until recently, due to previously being unable to access education, and considered inferior with the popular "A woman's place is in the kitchen" opinion by those in power. However, this situation has improved considerably in the last few decades. There has been a massive increase in women's participation in the labour force since WWII, with women now being an integral and visible component of the workforce .
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Marx asserts that the course of human history is greatly focussed around the struggle between classes. Examples range from the patrician and plebeian in biblical times to the lord and serf in 17th century feudal societies - this shows that throughout time, the oppressor and the oppressed have stood in constant opposition to each other.