cleavage in sociology

In sociology, "cleavage" refers to deep, ongoing divisions within a society that can shape political and social behavior. These divisions often arise from differences in ethnicity, religion, class, or culture. For example, a community might be split along religious lines, influencing voting patterns or group loyalties. Cleavages create distinct groups that may have conflicting interests or identities, affecting social cohesion and political dynamics. Understanding cleavages helps explain why societies sometimes experience polarization or difficulty in reaching consensus, as these fundamental divisions influence how people see themselves and others in the broader social landscape.