This chapter describes two types of social stratification, the “closed system” of caste and the “open system” of
class. Caste and class are not opposing concepts because class systems combine caste-like elements with
elements of meritocracy. To be more precise, the opposite of a pure caste system (social position based
entirely on birth) would be a pure meritocracy (social position based entirely on personal achievement).
Imagine a continuum—a line with “caste” at one end (call this point “one”) and “meritocracy” at the other (call
this point “ten”). Any real-world society could be placed somewhere on this line, depending on how much birth
versus personal achievement shapes social position. Where on this line (use a number between one and ten)
would you place U.S. society? Why? Would your answer differ with regard to women rather than men? Would it
differ regarding people of color versus white people? Explain.
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