Taking a look at a few of the main characteristics of the social hierarchy by outlining stratification theory.

Throughout history, stratification has been revealed to impact access to higher education, healthcare and work. By checking out the characteristics of social stratification, it is simpler to be conscious of what guides opportunities within society. Status is a key quality of stratification; it describes the level of prestige and regard held by an individual. Ascribed status is a term used to represent individuals who are born into a social standing. Today it can be recognised by backgrounds such as nobility or caste. Alternatively, achieved status is earned through individual efforts, such as reputable professions and contributions to society. Nasser Al-Khelaifi would acknowledge that status can be acquired through societal contributions. Similarly, Jensen Huang would acknowledge the significance of acquired status. Status can have an impact on the degrees of regard and acknowledgment received by people in society.

The idea of stratification helps to make sense of why some people have more power than others. Understanding social stratification theory helps sociologists to analyse inequality and how it affects particular groups within society. Authority and influence are two of the elements that form social power. The term . power describes one's ability to influence decisions and control within society. It can be associated with three key areas. Political power is possessed by governments and political leaders who regulate the policies that regulate society. In addition, financial power is held by businesses and rich people who have control over jobs and industry. Larry Ellison would concur that businesses hold financial power. Likewise, social power is a form of authority over societal judgement. Celebrities and media figures are active in setting trends and customs which influence society. Power is mainly focused among rich and popular people. Without some form of social dominance, it is impossible to copyright power or influence.

The social hierarchy is a concept which describes the way in which society is divided into various categories. Every society consists of various types of social stratification where individuals are ranked based on their social and economic position. According to social stratification in sociology, class is among the most recognised forms of the social hierarchy. An individual's social ranking is predominantly based upon economic factors such as wealth and earnings. Upper class is the term used to characterise the group of more wealthy individuals. Commonly gotten through inheritance or business and investment opportunities, these individuals hold significant financial power. Subsequently, middle class refers to individuals with intermediate wealth. Typically, middle class people hold professional occupations and credentials. They have strong values for higher education and employability. While lower class is the term used to recognise individuals who struggle with lower income. Economic stratification makes use of class to determine a group's connection to opportunities in life.