Economic inequality refers to the unequal distribution of resources and opportunities in a society, such as income, wealth, and access to education and healthcare.

Functionalist theory argues that social stratification is a natural and inevitable part of society because it serves important functions, such as motivating people to work hard and achieve success.

Marx argued that economic inequality is caused by the exploitation of the working class by the capitalist class, who own the means of production and profit from the labor of the workers.

Social mobility refers to the movement of individuals or groups between different social classes, either upward or downward.

Upward social mobility refers to the movement of individuals or groups from a lower social class to a higher social class.

Social stratification refers to the process by which individuals or groups are assigned to different social classes, based on factors such as income, wealth, education, and occupation.

Downward social mobility refers to the movement of individuals or groups from a higher social class to a lower social class.

The American Dream is the belief that social stratification is based on merit and that individuals can achieve success through hard work and determination.

Social classes are groups of people who share similar economic, social, and cultural characteristics.

Socialization is the process by which individuals or groups are socialized into the values and norms of their social class.

Social class conflicts are conflicts between different social classes over resources, power, and status.

Social egalitarianism is the idea that social stratification is harmful to society and that it should be eliminated.

Policies that promote social egalitarianism aim to reduce economic inequality and create a more just and equitable society.

Social elitism is the belief that social stratification is necessary for society to function properly.

Policies that promote social elitism aim to maintain or increase economic inequality and social stratification.