BSOE 148: SOCIAL STRATIFICATION

BSOE 148: Social Stratification – IGNOU Subject Overview

Introduction

BSOE 148: Social Stratification is a pivotal course offered by the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) as part of its Bachelor’s Degree Program in Sociology. This course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the various dimensions and dynamics of social stratification, a fundamental concept in sociology. Through this course, students explore how societies are structured and how these structures impact individuals and groups within them. Social stratification is a critical area of study as it sheds light on the inequalities and hierarchies that exist within any given society.

Understanding Social Stratification

Social stratification refers to the systematic ranking of different groups of people in a hierarchy of inequality. It involves the categorization of individuals based on various attributes such as class, caste, race, ethnicity, gender, and age. These categorizations lead to unequal access to resources, opportunities, and privileges. BSOE 148 delves into the mechanisms and consequences of these hierarchical divisions, examining how they influence social interactions and shape societal norms and values.

Course Objectives

The primary objectives of BSOE 148 are to:

1. Introduce Key Concepts: Provide students with a solid foundation in the key concepts and theories related to social stratification.
2. Analyze Social Structures: Equip students with the analytical tools needed to examine and understand the structures of inequality present in different societies.
3. Explore Theoretical Perspectives: Familiarize students with various theoretical perspectives on social stratification, including functionalist, conflict, and symbolic interactionist approaches.
4. Examine Case Studies: Encourage students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world case studies, helping them to understand the practical implications of social stratification.
5. Develop Critical Thinking: Foster critical thinking skills, enabling students to critically evaluate social stratification and its impact on different social groups.

Course Content

BSOE 148 is structured to cover a wide range of topics related to social stratification. Some of the key areas of study include:

1. Introduction to Social Stratification: This section provides an overview of the concept of social stratification, its importance in sociology, and its relevance to understanding social inequalities.
2. Theories of Social Stratification: Students explore various theoretical perspectives on social stratification, including:
   • Functionalist Theory: Examines how social stratification serves a purpose in maintaining societal stability and functionality.
   • Conflict Theory: Focuses on the power dynamics and conflicts that arise from unequal access to resources and opportunities.
   • Symbolic Interactionism: Analyzes how social stratification is maintained and reproduced through daily interactions and symbols.
3. Dimensions of Social Stratification: This section delves into the different dimensions of social stratification, such as:
   • Class Stratification: Examines how economic factors and class divisions shape social hierarchies.
   • Caste Stratification: Focuses on the caste system, particularly in the Indian context, and its implications for social mobility and inequality.
   • Racial and Ethnic Stratification: Explores how race and ethnicity contribute to social stratification and the resultant inequalities.
   • Gender Stratification: Analyzes the role of gender in social stratification and the disparities faced by different genders.
   • Age Stratification: Investigates how age influences social hierarchies and access to resources.
4. Social Mobility: This topic explores the concept of social mobility, including upward and downward mobility, and the factors that facilitate or hinder movement within the social hierarchy.
5. Global Perspectives on Social Stratification: Students gain insights into how social stratification operates in different parts of the world, comparing and contrasting the systems of inequality in various societies.
6. Impact of Social Stratification: This section examines the consequences of social stratification on individuals and groups, including issues related to poverty, health, education, and access to resources.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completing BSOE 148, students will be able to:

• Understand and explain the fundamental concepts and theories of social stratification.
• Critically analyze the structures of inequality present in different societies.
• Apply theoretical perspectives to real-world case studies to understand the practical implications of social stratification.
• Evaluate the impact of social stratification on various social groups and individuals.
• Develop informed opinions on issues related to social inequality and advocate for social justice.

Teaching Methodology

IGNOU employs a blended learning approach for BSOE 148, combining self-study materials, online resources, and interactive sessions. The study materials are designed to be comprehensive and accessible, allowing students to grasp complex concepts at their own pace. Additionally, IGNOU’s online platform provides access to lectures, discussions, and supplementary resources to enhance the learning experience. Assignments and assessments are integral components of the course, encouraging students to engage deeply with the content and demonstrate their understanding.

Assessment and Evaluation

The assessment for BSOE 148 includes a combination of assignments, term-end examinations, and participation in online discussions. Assignments are designed to test students’ comprehension and analytical skills, while the term-end examination evaluates their overall understanding of the course content. Active participation in online discussions allows students to engage with peers and instructors, fostering a collaborative learning environment.

Conclusion

BSOE 148: Social Stratification is a crucial course for students pursuing sociology at IGNOU. It offers an in-depth understanding of the complexities of social hierarchies and the inequalities that permeate societies. By exploring various dimensions and theoretical perspectives, students are equipped with the knowledge and skills to critically analyze and address issues related to social stratification. This course not only enhances academic understanding but also encourages students to become informed and active participants in the pursuit of social justice and equality.