Which concept involves a hierarchy based on wealth, power, or prestige?

The concept of social stratification refers to the structured ranking of individuals and groups in society based on factors such as wealth, power, and prestige. This hierarchy indicates how resources and opportunities are distributed unevenly across different social categories, resulting in a classification of people into various strata. These strata can manifest in social classes, where individuals within the same class often share similar levels of income, education, and societal influence. For instance, a person in the upper class typically enjoys greater access to quality education and healthcare, while those in lower classes may face significant barriers.

Understanding social stratification is crucial for analyzing how social inequalities develop and persist over time, affecting not just individuals but entire communities and societies. The other concepts presented do not encapsulate this hierarchical organization as clearly as social stratification does. Social mobility refers to the ability of individuals or groups to move within the social hierarchy, often influenced by educational and economic opportunities. Role differentiation describes the division of labor and specialized roles within a society rather than a hierarchy of status. Cultural assimilation pertains to the process whereby individuals or groups from one culture come to adopt the practices and values of another, which does not inherently relate to social hierarchies.