Ascriptive Society

An ascriptive society is one in which social status, opportunities, and rewards are based largely on inherited characteristics such as race, ethnicity, or family background, rather than individual merit or achievement. These societies tend to reinforce existing social hierarchies, making it difficult for people to move upward based on their talents or efforts. Characteristics like caste, racial identity, or lineage often determine one's social roles and privileges. In essence, ascriptive societies prioritize fixed, birth-based attributes over personal capabilities, shaping social interactions and access to resources accordingly.