
Social cleavages
Social cleavages are divisions within a society that separate groups based on characteristics such as ethnicity, religion, class, or language. These divisions can influence people's identities, relationships, and political views, sometimes leading to tensions or conflicts. Understanding social cleavages helps explain why certain groups have different interests and how these differences can shape social and political life. They are natural in diverse societies but require careful management to promote social cohesion and fairness.