Question 37

Stratification is universal because groups struggle for resources.

According to the conflict perspective, stratification is universal primarily because groups compete for limited resources, and those that acquire a larger share of these resources gain power. This power allows them to exploit those with fewer resources, perpetuating a cycle of inequality.

A) Groups struggle to possess resources. Once a group has a larger share of resources, it has power and will use that power to extract labor and resources from those groups that have fewer resources

This option accurately reflects the conflict perspective, which posits that social stratification arises from the competition for resources. It emphasizes that power dynamics are established when one group controls more resources, leading to the exploitation of less powerful groups, thus explaining the universality of stratification.

B) Society must make certain that its positions are filled, but some positions are more important than others. Therefore, society must offer incentives to qualified people so that those roles will be filled

While this option discusses the necessity of filling societal roles and the importance of incentives, it aligns more closely with the functionalist perspective. It does not address the conflict over resources or the power struggles inherent in stratification, making it less relevant to the question.

C) Some people work harder than others, and so they are compensated for the time and effort they dedicate

This statement suggests a meritocratic view of stratification, where hard work leads to rewards. However, it fails to recognize the systemic inequalities and power dynamics that underpin social stratification, which are central to the conflict perspective. Thus, it does not explain the universality of stratification.

D) Stratification is universal only in capitalistic countries

This option inaccurately limits the scope of stratification to capitalist societies, ignoring the fact that stratification exists in various forms across different social systems. The conflict perspective asserts that stratification is a universal phenomenon, not confined to any particular economic system.

Conclusion

Option A stands out as the correct answer because it encapsulates the fundamental tenet of the conflict perspective, which is the struggle for resources and resulting power dynamics. Other options either misrepresent the core concept or fail to address the reasons why stratification is universally observed. Thus, A provides the most comprehensive explanation of the phenomenon.