"Some Principles of Stratification" (essay)

"Some Principles of Stratification" by Kingsley Davis and Wilbert Moore explores how societies organize people into different social layers or classes based on factors like wealth, occupation, and education. The authors argue that stratification results from the need to assign the most important roles to the most qualified individuals, ensuring society functions efficiently. They suggest that society rewards certain positions with status and resources to motivate people to fill these roles. However, this system also creates inequalities, as access to opportunities often depends on factors like background and education. Overall, the essay examines how stratification serves societal needs while impacting social fairness.