eople and the differential distribution of those awards according to position are part of the social order and give rise to stratification. The Two Determinants of Positional Rank:In general, those positions with the best rewards and the highest rank are those which:1.) have the greatest functional importance - this is a matter of relative significance and is a necessary but not a sufficient determinant of rank2.) require the greatest training or talent - this is a matter of scarcity and is a sufficient determinant of rank Major Societal Functions and Stratification: Religion is important because it ensures unity through the perpetuation of common values and needs among members of a community. In medieval society, the priest was awarded the highest position in society because there was enough economic production to afford a surplus for a numerous and highly organized priesthood, but the populace was illiterate and highly credulous. In advanced society, the priesthood loses status because sacred tradition and supernaturalism lose significance as secular scientific knowledge becomes more important. Government is important because it organizes society in terms of law and authority. It orients society to the actual rather than the unseen world. Its internal functions include: 1.) ultimate enforcement of norms, 2.) final arbitration of conflicting interests, 3.) overall planning and direction of society. Its external function is the handling of war and diplomacy. Despite its importance, there are many factors (e.g., few government officials, rules and mores, the power of position vs. power of knowledge, etc.) which limit the power of government. Wealth, Property, and Labor: One of the main indices of social status is the economic return of a position. A position draws a high income because it is functionally important and the available personnel is scarce. The economic source of power and prestige is not income is not income primarily but th...
