Understand the difference between Social Status and Social Class

Two key concepts in sociology are social status and social class. A person’s social class and standing in society determine many elements of their life. It’s common practice to exchange these two terms. Nevertheless, these are not the same thing.

The sociological field emphasizes the difference between two similar terms, social status and social class. One’s socioeconomic background is the primary determinant of one’s social class. Still, one’s family background, the prestige of one’s profession, and one’s place in society all contribute to one’s social status.

The class structure didn’t emerge until the early 19th century, but the origins of social standing may be traced back to the beginning of the Bronze Age — 4,000 years before Julius Caesar ruled the Forum.

How to describe Social Status?

Social status is one’s position in society. It also means someone’s honor, respect, and deference. Birth social status is unrelated to a person’s abilities. Sex, age, family, religion, and race also determine attributed relationships. Similarly, skills, ability, and effort can also elevate social rank. Poor people are considered low status. Social status distributes resources, leadership, and other authority in society. Nonetheless, changing social status might be accepted by society. Based on education, career, accomplishments, and marital status, if a lower-class person acquires a strong education and a high-profile profession, he will rise in society.

There are two types of social status:

1. Ascribed social status is those that are given to you.
2. Achieved social status those that you work hard to get.

How to describe Social Class?

Societies are divided by social and economic class. Socioeconomic status matches social class. Social status is based on familial descent, occupation prestige, and cultural standing, while social class is based on economic background.

Countries and societies usually have classes. Several sociologists divide society into five social classes:

1. Upper class
2. Upper-middle class
3. Lower-middle class
4. Working-class
5. Impoverished

The upper- and lower-middle classes include administrative officers, doctors, lawyers, engineers, teachers, and others. The upper middle class typically consists of highly educated professionals from wealthier families. This includes doctors, lawyers, and business leaders. The working class comprises menial laborers, whereas the elite or impoverished class has leaders, and the wealthiest families form the upper class.

A person’s social status describes how they stand in relation to others, whereas social class describes how a society is divided along economic and social lines. A person’s social status is based on their genetic lineage, professional achievements, and cultural influence, while their socioeconomic background defines social class.