Republic of the Philippines

Department of Education
National Capital Region
DIVISION OF CITY SCHOOLS – MANILA
Manila Education Center Arroceros Forest Park
Antonio J. Villegas St. Ermita, Manila

Understanding
Culture, Society, and
Politics
Social Stratification
and Mobility

Quarter 2, Module 3

Most Essential Learning Competency:

Examine the concept, characteristics, and forms of
stratification systems using sociological perspectives.

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 HOW TO USE THIS MODULE

Before starting the module, I want you to set aside other tasks that will disturb
you while enjoying the lessons. Read the simple instructions below to successfully
enjoy the objectives of this kit. Have fun!

1. Follow carefully all the contents and instructions indicated in every page of
this module.
2. Write on your notebook the concepts about the lessons. Writing enhances
learning, that is important to develop and keep in mind.
3. Perform all the provided activities in the module.
4. Let your facilitator/guardian assess your answers using the answer key card.
5. Analyze conceptually the posttest and apply what you have learned.
6. Enjoy studying!

PARTS OF THE MODULE

 Expectations - These are what you will be able to know after completing the
lessons in the module.
 Pre-test - This will measure your prior knowledge and the concepts to be
mastered throughout the lesson.
 Looking Back to your Lesson - This section will measure what learnings and
skills did you understand from the previous lesson.
 Brief Introduction - This section will give you an overview of the lesson.
 Discussion - This section provides a short discussion of the lesson. This aims
to help you discover and understand new concepts and skills.
 Activities - This is a set of activities you will perform with a partner.
 Remember - This section summarizes the concepts and applications of the
lessons.
 Check your understanding - It will verify how you learned from the lesson.
 Post-test - This will measure how much you have learned from the entire
module.

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 EXPECTATIONS

You will explain the concept, characteristics, and forms of stratification

systems using sociological perspectives.
Specifically, this module will help you to:
 explain the concept of social and political stratification;
 examine stratification from the functionalist, conflict, and symbolic
interactionist perspectives;
 analyze how social desirables influence social stratification;
 apply the theoretical perspectives about stratification in analyzing social issues;
and
 compose a journal entry sharing your own realizations and views on the lesson.

Let us start your journey in learning more about Social

Stratification and Mobility. I am sure you are ready and
excited to answer the Pretest. Smile and cheer up!

PRETEST
Directions: Choose the letter of the best answer and write it on a separate sheet of
paper.

1. It refers to the systematic classification of people according to their wealth,

power, and prestige.
a. Global stratification c. Social mobility
b. Political stratification d. Social stratification
2. It refers to the movement of people from one status to another.
a. Socialization c. Social status
b. Social mobility d. Social stratification
3. Which of the following characterizes a closed society (caste system)?
a. It allows movement between the classes.
b. It provides equal opportunities for people.
c. It is strictly based on birth and ascription.
d. It is based on individual efforts and achievements.
4. Which of the following scenarios is an example of upward social mobility?
a. Dennis intends to enroll in law school after passing the CPA board
examination.
b. Raymund was promoted in his work after selling five condominium
units within a month.
c. Brian lost his job after the company he is working with has declared
bankruptcy due to the impact of the pandemic.
d. Michelle and Steve are set to go through an arranged marriage to
maintain the wealth and connection of their respective families.

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 5. It is the theory that manifests the conflicting interest between employer and
employee when it comes to salary adjustment and benefits.
a. Conflict theory c. Functionalist theory
b. Dependency theory d. Symbolic interactionism

LOOKING BACK TO YOUR LESSON

Great! You finished answering the questions. You may request your
facilitator to check your work. Congratulations and keep on learning!

Questions of the Day

The previous module discussed the importance of social institutions focusing
on the functions and significance of education in society. Let us refresh your
knowledge and apply what you have learned from the previous discussion.

Directions:
1. Choose at least two of the questions of the day and answer them.
2. Answer the follow-up questions below.

How is formal education What are the functions of

different from informal education? Explain.
education?
Education

What challenges in education do

Why is education important to you think demands more
the dignity of a human person? attention from the government?
Why?

Based on the previous lesson, evaluate whether the present Philippine

educational system is responsive to the needs of the Filipino students. Is the present
Philippine educational system responsive to the demands of society?

BRIEF INTRODUCTION
Each and every one of us is distinctly unique in this world. Everyone is unique
in terms of physical appearance, race, family background, and even socio-economic
standing. This uniqueness makes us distinct from each other, which in return makes
us fall into certain groups or categories in society. Our society, being dynamic, is
made up of groups and classes which is stratified and divided according to class.
Thus, we have the concept of Social Stratification.

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 This lesson will provide a deeper understanding of the different concepts
pertaining to social stratification. It will analyze such concepts like social desirables
and theories such as functionalist, conflict, and symbolic interactionism among
others. It is hoped that after this lesson, you, our young students, will have a clear
understanding of the abovementioned concepts and be sensitive and active in
addressing the issues and concerns on social classes in society.

DISCUSSIONS
Lesson Social Desirables and
1 Stratification

Social and Political Stratification

Social stratification is a systematic
categorization of individuals and institutions
according to their roles and status in society
(Santarita & Madrid, 2016, p. 108). It also refers to
society’s classification of its people into rankings
based on wealth, income, prestige, education, and
power. Social stratification is the term used by
sociologists to describe the system of social
standing.
Political stratification, on the other hand, is
defined as an organized classification of individuals
and institutions in society based on power relations
and status of power in the state.
Figure 1- Economic Stratification. (Courtesy of
International Pub. Co., Cleveland, Ohio. / Public
domain,
Social Desirables https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons
/e/e8/Pyramid_of_Capitalist_System.jpg, 2020).

Social stratification classifies people

according to wealth, power, and prestige.
Wealth, power, and prestige are referred to as
social desirables or rewards of social
positions or statuses (Macionis, 2012, p.
224). Wealth is the total value of an
individual or family, including income,
stocks, bonds, real estate, and other assets
(Barkan, 2012, p. 236).

In the context of our history, the

Figure 2- Bill Gates is considered as the Richest Man haciendero or those who own large
in the World since 1995. (Courtesy of Ministerie van agricultural lands are considered on top of
Buitenlandse Zaken / CC BY-SA
(https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)/ the social strata based on their wealth, while
Public domain,
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/2 5
d/Bill_Gates_2014.jpg, 2020).
the tenants or those who work for the landlords are on the lower strata. This situation
mirrors the social stratification between the rich and the poor. At present, CEOs of
big business firms, successful Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who bring home US
dollars or Euros to their family, and those who are fortunate to be born with a silver
spoon in their mouth are considered new measures of wealth. The wealth of a person
determines his/her status on the social stratification.

Power is the ability to influence others to

do your will. It is the capacity to control the
behavior of individuals and institutions,
whether by persuasion or coercion (Magstadt as
cited by Santarita & Madrid, 2016, p. 111).
Power is best seen in politics as politicians can
influence decision-making in governance.
Whether an elected President, senator, mayor,
or president of a student government, all those
positions exude power. Even other social
institutions such as media and church convey
immense power to influence other people.

Figure 3- President Rodrigo Roa Duterte exudes

power when it comes to social desirables.
(Courtesy of Presidential Communications
Operations Office / Public domain,
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons
/3/3e/President_Rodrigo_Duterte.jpg, 2020).

Prestige refers to the status and

esteem people hold in the eyes of others
(Barkan, 2012, p. 237). Prestige is also
defined as respect or approval for
culturally valued acts or qualities
(Santarita & Madrid, 2016, p. 111).
Most individuals gain wealth and power
through their popularity and prestige.
One example is People’s Champ, Manny
Pacquiao, who brought home honors to
the country in the field of boxing. His
Figure 4- Manny Pacquiao brought pride and prestige fame in the field of boxing brought him
in the Philippines that placed him in the upper
class of the society. (Courtesy of Malacañang Photo
wealth and later power as he entered
Bureau / Public domain, the world of politics when he became a
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/81
/Sarangani_Lone_District_Representative_Manny_Pacqui
senator.
ao_%28cropped%29.jpg, 2020).

It must also be remembered that prestige does not always equate wealth as
shown in the example of teachers. Teachers receive high regard in society and have
high levels of education but receive relatively low pay. Many believe that teaching is
a noble profession; unfortunately, it lacks monetary compensation compared to other
professions.

The three social desirables (wealth, power, and prestige) usually complement
one another, but they do not always overlap. For example, a leader of a crime
syndicate might be very wealthy and powerful, but lacks prestige outside of the

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criminal underworld. More so, a scientist or professor may enjoy much prestige but
may not be very wealthy. People in different strata have different access to wealth,
power, and prestige. These differences in society give rise to inequality.

Four Basic Principles of Social Stratification

In order to understand the concept of social stratification, it is important to look
into four basic principles of social stratification (Macionis as cited by Riodique, 2016,
p. 240):

1. Social stratification is a trait of the society

This means that social stratification is bigger compared to individual
differences. A person’s social standing is influenced by the structure of society.
Social stratification could be present even from the moment of birth. For
example, if you are born into a rich family, then you are fortunate enough to
be on the upper class; on the other hand, if you are born poor, you need to
work hard to attain a higher status. Social stratification is a product that is
shaped and maintained by society as a whole.
2. Social stratification is carried over from one generation to the next
It is a common practice in our society for parents to pass on their social
position to their children. If they own a business empire, it is more likely that
they will pass their business to their children, and eventually the children will
gain the same wealth and status as their parents.
3. Social stratification is universal but variable
Social stratification is unavoidable; it can be found anywhere. However,
stratification is not the same for all societies. Each society has its own way of
categorizing people based on its own cultural traditions. Some societies have
a high regard for the economic standing of an individual or family, others put
value on prestige or power as the measurement of one’s status in the society.
4. Social stratification is anchored on beliefs as well
Inequality depends on the way culture evaluates it. A particular culture
could see certain individual category as unfair but another culture can see it
as fair. An example of this is the tradition of polygamous marriage for male
Muslims, whereas polygamous relationship is unacceptable for non-Muslims.

Theoretical Perspectives on Social Stratification

There are three theories that explain why social stratification exists:
Functionalist Theory, Conflict Theory, and Symbolic Interactionism Theory.

1. Functionalist Theory

According to the functionalist theory, stratification exists because it serves

an important purpose or function in society. Emile Durkheim (1858-1917)
compared social classes to the different organs of the human body (1893). Different
classes perform different functions in society. This idea was further strengthened by
Kingsley Davis (1908-1997) and Wilbert Moore (1914-1987). They emphasized that
all members of society perform different roles based on their ability or skill. Some
tasks in society are more valuable than others, and qualified people who fill those

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positions must be rewarded more than others (Barkan, 2012, p. 239). For example,
a surgeon or a lawyer holds a more important job than someone who washes car or
sweeps streets. The job of being a surgeon or a lawyer requires more skills and
knowledge compared with car washing or street sweeping that does not require a
higher educational degree. The more functional or important the position these
individuals hold in society, the greater their rewards. Davis and Moore believed that
rewarding more important work with higher levels of income, prestige, and power
encourages people to work harder and longer (Keirns et al., 2013, p. 202).
Stratification is necessary because it ensures that the most important positions in
society are filled up with the most qualified individuals.

2. Conflict Theory
This theory holds that social stratification exists because it benefits certain
groups of people who dominate and exploit others (Deray, 2011, p. 118). If the
functionalist theory emphasizes the common interest that members of the society
share, conflict theory, on the other hand, highlights the interests that divide the
people. People struggle for wealth, power, and prestige. This theory was advocated by
Karl Marx (1818-1883). Marx who lived during the Industrial Revolution, saw the
injustices and unequal treatment of the bourgeoisie or the upper class to the
proletariat or the working class. The bourgeoisie are the capitalists who own large
factories and industries that mass produce goods for the consumption of the general
public. They control the economic activities of the state. Meanwhile, the proletariat
or the working (lower) class are the laborers inside the factories owned by the
capitalists who sell their labor for money.

Marx saw the glaring problem of the rich becoming richer and the poor
becoming poorer because of the deprived working conditions of the proletariats. The
bourgeoisie or the capitalists are occupied with how they can increase their wealth
while the proletariats are focused on how they can survive from their day-to-day
manual labor. Conflicting interest between the capitalist and the proletariat happen
when the capitalist tries to decrease the wages of their workers, while the workers
fight for what they believe is just compensation. This process of thug of war usually
results in a class struggle between the capitalists and the proletariats.
In the context of our history, the hacienda system also brought about
conflicting interest between the haciendero or the landlord and their hacienda
workers. Farmers received unfair labor treatment and were denied fair compensation
and benefits. Poor labor practices lead to various campaigns to protect the rights
and interest of the farmers. This conflicting interest between the capitalists and the
proletariats results in social inequality. At present, this can be seen in the unions
being formed and rallies being staged by labor groups that demand fair labor
practices and just compensation and benefits from their employers.

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3. Symbolic Interactionism

Symbolic interactionism focuses on understanding stratification by examining

the people’s interaction and understanding in their daily lives. This theory employs
the everyday interactions of individuals to analyze society as a whole. It studies
stratification from a micro-level perspective. It examines how people’s social standing
affects their everyday interactions (Keirns et al., 2013, p. 203). This means that
people interact primarily with others who share the same social standing or group.
Because of the existing social stratification, people tend to live, work, and associate
themselves with people who share their same income level, educational background,
or racial background, and even preferences in food, music, and clothing. The
established system of social stratification groups people together. The rich and the
upper class create their own circle of friends as shown by the lifestyle of rich
celebrities who live in exclusive and affluent subdivisions. This can also be observed
in other social classes or standing.

Symbolic interactionism also observes that people’s appearance reflects their

perceived social standing. Our fashion, housing, mode of transportation and even
our preferences in accessories and personal style indicate social status. These have
become “status symbols” found in the society. Status symbols serve as the visible
markers of a person’s stature and economic position. Those trendy gadgets like
cellphones, laptop, clothes, shoes and bags are some examples of status symbols
that reflect a person’s social standing.

Lesson
Social Mobility System
2

BRIEF INTRODUCTION

The first lesson introduced us to the concept of social stratification, the factors
that determine stratification (social desirables), and the theoretical perspectives that
explain why stratification exists. Given that social stratification is part of our society,
the questions now are, “Is there any chance we can move from one social class to
another? What could be the possible means that would enable us to move from one
position to another?”

This lesson will answer these questions as it will explain the concept of social
mobility, types of mobility, and the factors that influence social mobility.

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 DISCUSSIONS
Social Mobility
Social mobility is a process by which individuals or groups move from one
status to another or from one class to another (Doda, 2005, p. 177). It is the
movement of people from one position to another in the social stratification system.
Some may move from one position to another, from a higher social class position to
a lower social class position, and vice versa. Social mobility indicates changes in
opportunities, incomes, lifestyles, personal relationships, social status, and class
membership. An example of this is the movement of the status of a person from being
poor to rich like People’s Champ Sen. Manny Pacquiao whose rags to riches story
has become an inspiration to many Filipinos.

Social mobility may be vertical or horizontal.

Types of Social Mobility

1.Vertical Social Mobility – refers to upward or downward social mobility.

a) Upward social mobility- refers to the increase or upward shift in social

class. One good example is the success of Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko
Moreno” Domagoso who started as a scavenger in Smokey Mountain but
was given the opportunity to join show business and later entered the world
of politics. His success in life enables him to move upward in social
stratification. Upward mobility is not only limited to becoming wealthy and
popular. People who earn a college degree, get a job promotion, or marry
someone with a good income may move up in social stratification.

b) Downward social mobility- refers to the lowering of one’s social class.

People may experience a downward social mobility because of business
setbacks, unemployment, or illness. Dropping out of school may also lead
to downward social mobility.

Please take note that vertical social mobility is found in the open class system
of stratification.

2. Horizontal Social Mobility – is a movement within a social class or social position

where an individual slightly improves and/or declines in his/her social position
within his/her class level. Take note that horizontal social mobility does not
involve a shift into a higher or lower stratum. The movement of people is only
within the same social strata where they belong (San Juan, 2007, p. 165). The
following are examples: an accountant may study and become a lawyer, or
marriage between members belonging to the same social class.

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Social Stratification Systems

The ease or difficulty of movement in the social stratification depends upon

the type of society a person lives in. There are two types of social stratification system:
the open society or class system and the closed society or caste system.

1. Open Society (Class System)

A society is considered open when stratification is based on social

classes, where people’s social position or status is determined by economic
wealth and income. An open system enables social mobility based on personal
efforts and individual achievements (Kottak as cited by Santarita & Madrid,
2016, p. 113). Open systems, which are based on achievement, allow
movement or mobility and interaction between classes.

The class system is a social stratification based on birth and individual

achievement. In this type of system, people’s positions are achievable and
changeable. In effect, people can be socially mobile. It is possible therefore for
some people to rise and fall from one class into another (Deray et al., 2011, p.
113). For example, members of a poor family can improve their condition
through hard work and perseverance. When parents work and send their
children to school, and if in return the children study hard and finish their
education, there would be a higher chance that they would be employed, earn
a higher social standing, and help their family. In this case, personal effort
such as hard work, perseverance, and education plays an important role in
social mobility.

Aside from personal effort and achievement, a person’s class standing

under this system is also influenced by his/her birthright. If a child is born
into a rich family, that child is already considered as part of the upper class.
However, those who are not born to an affluent family have to work hard to
improve their social standing. An open society provides people with equal
chance to succeed or equal opportunities to achieve their aspirations in life
based on their talents, skills, and contributions. The open class system
provides all forms of social mobility. A person may go up or down the social
strata based on his/her hard work, intelligence, effort, motivation, or sheer
luck.

2. Closed Society (Caste System)

A society is considered closed when social mobility is limited or

prohibited. In a closed society, the existing cultural norms laid down through
laws prohibit a person from moving upward the social strata. In a closed
system, society does not allow to shift levels and does not permit social
relations between levels.

The caste system is an example of a closed system which is based on

birth or ascription. A person who is born to a particular social standing is
expected to remain on that strata for the rest of his/her life. The Indian caste

11
 system identifies four major castes or varna (a Sanskrit word which means
“color”): Brahmins- priests and scholars; Kshatriya- warriors; Vaishya-
merchants; and Shudra- artisans, peasants, and servants. Not included in the
caste system are the untouchables who are considered outcast of society.

People are assigned occupations based on their caste regardless of

their talents, interests, or potentials. This means that the highest ranks in the
caste system can enjoy the highest ways of living while the lowest in ranks are
limited to low-ranking jobs. They also have to enter into marriage according
to their caste. There are nearly no opportunities to improve one’s social
position. The caste system is anchored on fatalism, which believes in fate,
destiny, and the will of a higher power, rather than on individual freedom as
a value. A person who lives in a caste society is socialized to accept his or her
standing (Keirns et al., 2013, p. 193).

The caste system in India is

Brahmins founded on Hinduism. Hindus believe
in reincarnation of the soul, such that
(priests
and the moral quality of the action of a
scholars) person in his/her past life will
determine what life he/she will
Kshatriya experience when his/her soul will
(warriors, reincarnate. If a person had done
landords) good deeds in his/her previous life,
he/she will be reincarnated as
another being in a higher caste. On
Vaishya
the other hand, if a person had done
(merchants, traders)
bad actions, he/she is reborn in a
lower caste. In this case, it is only
Shudra through the process of reincarnation
(artisans, peasants, that a person will change his/her
servants) social standing. Although the caste
Untouchables system in India has been officially
(street sweepers, Latrine cleaners) outlawed, it is still observed in some
Figure 1- India’s caste system follows a rigid rural communities.
classification among social strata.

Another country once dominated by the caste is South Africa. To enforce

control over the black majority, the white people (of British descent) use the policy
of apartheid or racial segregation between the blacks and the white Africans. The
apartheid policy, in effect, deprives the blacks of their civil rights such as the rights
to own land, to acquire citizenship, and to participate in the affairs of the
government. The blacks are placed in the lower caste; as such, they are denied
education and they perform menial and low-paying jobs, while a white person has
at least one black servant. Resistance to apartheid caused the whites to use brutal
military force against the blacks (Deray et al., 2011, p. 113). The policy of apartheid
ended in 1994 when Nelson Mandela was elected as the first black president of
South Africa. The caste system, in general, promotes inequality because individuals
are classified into rigid stratification where there is difficulty to shift or move through
time.

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Factors Affecting Social Mobility

There are different factors that affect the social mobility of a person. Access to
quality education is considered as the most important. Other factors include change
of profession and geographical mobility. There are also sudden or drastic events that
can influence social mobility such as inheriting a huge amount of wealth, gambling,
theft or financial corruption, winning a lottery game, etc.

Chances and opportunities for an upward social mobility are most likely in
modern societies with an open system. In an open society, there is freedom of vertical
social mobility. What counts the most are personal merits and efforts for
achievement. Meanwhile, in societies with closed system, vertical, especially upward
social mobility is extremely difficult. Individuals born to this type of society remains
stagnant in their position in the social strata. The most important determinants here
are not the individual’s achievements, merits, or personal effort, but what counts
most are one’s ancestry, racial background, family background, religion, sex, and
ethnicity (Henslin & Nelson as cited by Doda, 2005, p. 182).

Factors that affect social mobility

Open Society Closed Society
1. Education 1. Ancestry
2. Talent/ Skills 2. Religion
3. Personal merits 3. Racial background
4. Efforts and Hard work 4. Sex
5. Resourcefulness 5. Ethnicity
6. Luck

There are also some factors that make it difficult for individuals to move from
one class standing to another. Such barriers include lack of opportunity, motivation,
commitment, interest, or positive attitude. Other important barriers may include
one’s own physical condition, lack of access to quality education, inequality in the
distribution of wealth and opportunity, one’s color or ethnic origin, etc.
Biological, environmental, and cultural factors also affect social mobility.
These factors include (San Juan, 2007, p. 165):

1. Sex and gender

2. Intellectual factors or mental ability and creativity
3. Non-intellectual factors such as ambition, drive, enthusiasm,
perseverance, and “connections”
4. Fortune or sheer luck
5. Physical appearance
6. Education and specialized skills
7. Status of parents
8. Marriage
9. Changing labor markets (e.g., industrialization)
10. Geographical mobility (e.g., from rural to urban)
11. High or low fertility
12. Government interventions (e.g., providing more jobs, assistance, and
incentives to business and labor, favorable legislations to labor).

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 ACTIVITIES
Activity 1.1. Situational Analysis
Objective: Relate the theoretical perspectives about stratification in analyzing social
issues.
Directions:
1. Read and analyze the following situations. Identify the theoretical
perspective that is associated with each situation. Explain how it is related.
2. Write your answer on a separate sheet of paper.

Situation
1. Due to the high demand for and importance of doctors, nurses and other
medical-related jobs during the pandemic crisis, the health sector seeks higher
compensation and benefits in the light of the risks, dangers, and heavy workload
due to the COVID-19 issue.
2. Hashtag (#) Check your privilege became a trending topic during the first part
of the enhanced community quarantine. Some known personalities from the upper
class criticized the lower class for still working outside despite the lockdown.
Netizens were quick to point out to look into one’s status and be sensitive to the
needs of other people.
3. Mark believes that social equality will never happen. He believes that there
would always be someone who needs to do menial jobs like street sweeper or
garbage collector. If there would be equality in society, it would be a challenge to
find someone who will do the menial jobs.
4. The hype beast trend among the youth reflects their preferences in fashion and
status symbol.
Critical Thinking Questions:
1. Are status symbols important?
2. Which among the three theories in stratification do you strongly agree with?
Explain your answer.

Activity 1.2. Caricature Making

Objective: Interpret your concept of social stratification and its connection to
inequalities in society.
Directions:
1. Draw a caricature showing inequality as a result of stratification in the
context of Philippine society.
2. Draw your caricature on a short bond paper. Answer the guide questions
that follow at the back page of the caricature.
3. The following criteria will be used in grading your output:
Creativity (Artistry) 20 points
Content (Relevance to the topic) 20 points
Over-all Appeal 10 points
Total: 50 points

Critical Thinking Questions:

1. What are the inequalities presented in your caricature? What makes you
decide to come up with the design and content of your caricature?
2. How does social stratification affect inequalities in our society? Explain.

14
Activity 1.3. Comparative Analysis
Objective: Analyze the concept of closed and open society in the cases of India and
the Philippines.
Directions:
1. Compare and contrasts the differences and similarities of India’s caste system
to the class system of the Philippines during the pre-colonial period.
2. Answer the following guide questions on a separate sheet of paper.

India’s Caste System Philippines – Class System

during Pre-Colonial Period

Datu

Maharlika

Timawa

Alipin
(Namamahay,
Saguiguilid)

Untouchables
(street sweepers, Latrine cleaners)

Critical Thinking Questions:

1. In what way(s) are the class hierarchy of India and the Philippines similar?
2. In what way(s) are the class hierarchy of India and the Philippines different
from each another?
3. Which of the two hierarchy permits social mobility? Explain your answer.
4. Is the caste system in accord with human dignity?

15
 CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING
Sociological Analysis
Knowledge and understanding of the different theoretical perspectives are
helpful in developing wise analysis and judgment on issues. For this task you will fill
in the shoes of a sociologist, and will explain social issues using structural
functionalism, conflict, and symbolic interactionism as basis for your analysis.
Directions: Explain the impact of the pandemic crisis in the life of the Filipinos using
the three theories as the basis of your analysis. Write your answer on a separate
sheet of paper.
The Impact of Pandemic Crisis on the Filipinos
The role of the front The lifestyle gap between The “new normal” as seen
liners such as health the rich and the poor in the wearing of face
workers, on-line delivery during the quarantine mask and observance of
service drivers, security period using the conflict social distancing using
guards, maintenance theory the symbolic
staff among others using interactionist theory
the functionalist theory
Critical Thinking Questions:
1. What did you discover when you did your task? What are your insights
on the task?
2. Using the functionalist theory, explain the importance of media and
entertainment during the pandemic crisis.
3. Using the conflict theory, explain the conflicting interest between the
police and military personnel and the street vendors.
4. What for you is the biggest impact of the pandemic? How did you cope
with the pandemic?
5. How does social stratification highlights inequality among the people
during the pandemic? How can we address this problem?

REMEMBER
 Social stratification is the classification of people into rankings based on
wealth, prestige, and power.
 Social desirables refer to the indicators that measure a person’s worth on
social hierarchy. This includes power, wealth, and prestige.
 There are three explanations on why social stratification exists: Functionalist
Theory, Conflict Theory and Symbolic Interactionism Theory.
 According to the functionalist theory, stratification exists because it serves
an important purpose or function in the society. Meanwhile, the conflict
theory explains that social stratification exists because it benefits certain
groups of people who control and exploit others.

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  The symbolic interactionism theory explains that social stratification
affects the people’s lifestyle and interaction with other people. This theory also
explains the concept of status symbols which serve as the visible markers of
a person’s stature and economic position.
 Social mobility is a process by which individuals or groups move from one
status to another or from one class or to another.
 There are two types of social mobility: vertical social mobility and horizontal
social mobility.
 Vertical social mobility refers to upward or downward social mobility. It may
be an upward social mobility or the increase or upward shift in the social
class or a downward social mobility which is the lowering of one’s social
class.
 Horizontal social mobility is a movement within a social class or position
where the individual slightly improves and/or declines in his/her social
position within his/her class level.
 There are two types of social stratification system: the open society or class
system and the closed society or caste system.
 Open society or class system enables social mobility based on personal
efforts and achievements, while a closed society or caste system prohibits
social mobility.
 Apartheid is a policy of racial segregation between the black and the white
Africans implemented in South Africa. The policy ended in 1994 when Nelson
Mandela was elected as the first black president of South Africa.
 Education, sex and gender, marriage, talent, skills, and status of parents are
some of the factors that affect social mobility.

POST TEST
Directions: Multiple Choice. Choose the letter of the best answer. Write the chosen
letter on a separate sheet of paper.

1. Which of the following best defines social stratification?

a. Social stratification is the movement of people in the social strata.
b. Social stratification is the widening gap between the rich and poor
countries.
c. Social stratification is the systematic classification of people into
hierarchy or strata.
d. Social stratification is the classification of people based on power
relations.
2. The salary of a lawyer is much higher than the salary of a janitor. The
difference in their salary is explained and supported by which theory in social
stratification?
a. Conflict theory c. Functionalist theory
b. Dependency theory d. Symbolic interactionism
3. Which of the following scenario presents horizontal social mobility?
a. Marco lost his job after he got into an accident.
b. Despite financial challenges, Edward was able to finish his college
education with flying colors.

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 c. Luisa will now be able wear designer clothes and accessories after
marrying the son of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of a big
corporation.
d. Joshua, who came from a rich family, will finally marry his childhood
sweetheart, Sandra, who also came from a wealthy family.
4. Which of the following statements supports the idea that an open society
provides more opportunities than a closed society?
a. Open society is based on birth; therefore, a person’s social standing is
his/ her destiny in life.
b. Open society is based on merits and connection; therefore, there is a
high chance to succeed if the person has the right “connections”.
c. Open society is based on culture and religion; therefore, traditions and
belief are strictly observed and carried out to the next generation.
d. Open society is based on personal efforts and achievements; therefore,
there is an equal chance to succeed depending on the level of hard work
and perseverance.
5. The Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) implemented in the country
highlights the inequality in terms of comfort, convenience, and opportunity
between the rich and the poor. This scenario is being supported by what
theory of stratification?
a. Conflict theory c. Modernization theory
b. Dependency theory d. Symbolic interactionism theory

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 REFERENCES

Books

Candelaria, A. et al. (2016). Understanding Culture, Society and Politics: Reader: Pasig
City: Department of Education- Bureau of Learning Resources.
Deray, G. et al. (2011). Society and Culture. Caloocan City: Suatengco Publishing
House.
Macionis, J. (2012). Sociology 14th edition. Boston: Pearson.
Riodique, F. (2016). Understanding Culture, Society and Politics: Exploring the
Dynamics of Human Diversity and Adaptation. Intramuros, Manila:
Mindshapers Co., Inc.
San Juan, W. et al. (2007). Sociology, Culture and Family Planning. Pasig City: Unlad
Publishing House.
Santarita, J., & Madrid, R. (2016). Understanding Culture, Society, and Politics.
Quezon City: Vibal Group, Inc.

E-books
Barkan, S. (2012). Sociology Brief Edition v. 1.1. [PDF file). Los Angeles: Unnamed
Publisher. Retrieved from
https://2012books.lardbucket.org/pdfs/sociology-brief-edition-v1.0.pdf
Doda, Z. (2005). Introduction to Sociocultural Anthropology [PDF file]. Awassa:
Ethiopia Public Health Training Initiative. Retrieved from
https://www.cartercenter.org/resources/pdfs/health/ephti/library/lect
ure_notes/health_science_students/ln_socio_anthro_final.pdf
Doda, Z. (2005). Introduction to Sociology [PDF file]. Awassa: Ethiopia Public Health
Training Initiative. Retrieved from
https://www.cartercenter.org/resources/pdfs/health/ephti/library/lect
ure_notes/health_science_students/ln_sociology_final.pdf
Keirns, N. et al. (2013). Introduction to Sociology [PDF file]. Houston, Texas: Rice
University. Retrieved from
https://resources.saylor.org/wwwresources/archived/site/textbooks/O
penStax%20Sociology.pdf

Web Article
Rivas, Ralf (2020, January 20). Filipinos find it hard to move up the social ladder.
Rappler.com. Retrieved from

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 https://www.rappler.com/business/249758-philippines-ranking-global-
social-mobility-wef-report-2020
Figures/Photos

Figure 1- Economic Stratification. (Courtesy of International Pub. Co., Cleveland,

Ohio. / Public domain,
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e8/Pyramid_of_Capitalist_Sy
stem.jpg, 2020).

Figure 2- Bill Gates is considered as the Richest Man in the World since 1995.
(Courtesy of Ministerie van Buitenlandse Zaken / CC BY-SA
(https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)/ Public domain,
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/2d/Bill_Gates_2014.jpg,
2020).

Figure 3- President Rodrigo Roa Duterte exudes power when it comes to social
desirables. (Courtesy of Presidential Communications Operations Office / Public
domain,
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/3e/President_Rodrigo_Duterte
.jpg, 2020).

Figure 4- Manny Pacquiao brought pride and prestige in the Philippines that
placed him in the upper class of the society. (Courtesy of Malacañang Photo
Bureau / Public domain,
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/81/Sarangani_Lone_District_
Representative_Manny_Pacquiao_%28cropped%29.jpg, 2020).

20
 Management and Development Team
Schools Division Superintendent: Maria Magdalena M. Lim, CESO V
Chief Education Supervisor: Aida H. Rondilla
CID Education Program Supervisor: Amalia C. Solis
CID LR Supervisor: Lucky S. Carpio
CID-LRMS Librarian II: Lady Hannah C Gillo
CID-LRMS PDO II: Albert James P. Macaraeg

Editor/s: Raul F. Espinosa, Master Teacher II (Content)

Alvin V. Santos, Master Teacher II (Content)
Winnie Irish T. Sanqui, Teacher III (Content)
Susana T. Alabastro, Ret. Head Teacher VI (Language)
Writer: Eduardo B. Noda, Jr., Teacher III

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 REFLECTIVE LEARNING SHEET
Name ____________________________________________ Grade and Section ___________
School: ______________________ Date: _____________ Subj. Teacher: _______________

Quarter: 2nd Module No.: 3

MELC: Examine the concept, characteristics, and forms of stratification systems
using sociological perspectives.
Objectives: Apply the concept of social desirables and stratification to our everyday
life.
Topic: Social Stratification and Mobility

Journal Entry

Directions: Read and analyze each question. Write your answers on a separate sheet
of paper.

1. The conflict theory taught us about the conflicting interest between the upper
class and lower class. How can you show sensitivity to the plight of those in
the lower class?
2. Is social stratification unavoidable in our society?
3. If you were given the chance to choose only one social desirable, which one
would you choose to have – power, wealth, or prestige? Explain why.
4. What life lessons have you learned in our module?

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ANSWER KEY

PRETEST POSTTEST

1. D 1. C
2. B 2. C
3. C 3. D
4. B 4. D
5. A 5. A

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