Modes Of stratification

   There are several modes of stratification depending on a particular society's values.

Most societies use particular power, religious values, economic power and social values. In Africa, stratification is mostly based on tradition but recent stratification is usually based on education, economic power (property, income, occupation) and personal achievement. In India , social stratification is known as the Caste system. The most important stratification in India involves the priest (Brahmin) , the nobles (Kshatriya) , the serfs (Shudra ) following in that order of importance.

   In Nigeria, some form of caste system is also practised in parts of Anambra and IMO states. This form of caste system is known as 'OSU'.

   India community stratification is based on religion. Hence the priests who occupy the top positions are regarded as being purer than other members of the social ladder.

The caste system is a permanent stratification which is strictly upheld by all members. Therefore, members of a certain caste are not supposed to marry from a different caste. In other words, a 'Brahmin' is prohibited from marrying from the 'Shudra' caste, a 'Kshatriya' is not expected to marry from the a 'Vaishya' etc.

   Members of a 'higher'  caste look down on non members of their caste as being inferior to them.

  Because of rigid adherence to caste regulations or strict observance of permanent caste rules, members of a caste born into one caste cannot improve upon their position in order to move from a lower caste to a higher caste by acquisition of wealth , property , education etc.

  The caste system is unlike the system of class stratification where one class is subject to changes in the course of time.

  In the class system of stratification, there are no rigid of strict permanent rules to maintain a definite class structure or shape. In class stratification one can change his position or class by his personal achievement.

A farmer's child can be an engineer, a doctor , a lawyer, etc if he studies well.

  Unlike in other form of class societies, traditional societies are as rigid as the caste systems.