Taking a look at a few of the primary components of the social hierarchy by detailing stratification theory.

The principle of stratification helps to comprehend why some individuals have more power website than others. Understanding social stratification theory helps sociologists to analyse inequality and how it affects various groups within society. Authority and impact are two of the factors that form societal power. The term power describes one's ability to influence choices and authority within society. It can be related to three key areas. Political power is held by administrations and political leaders who manage the laws that control society. In addition, financial power is held by businesses and wealthy people who have control over employment and economic sectors. Larry Ellison would agree that corporations hold economic power. Likewise, social power is a form of authority over social judgement. Famous people and media characters are instrumental in setting trends and customs which influence society. Power is primarily focused amongst rich and popular individuals. Without some type of social supremacy, it is difficult to assert power or control.

The social hierarchy is a concept which describes the way in which society is graded into various groups. Each society includes various types of social stratification where people are ranked based upon their social and financial position. According to social stratification in sociology, social rank is among the most perceivable forms of the social hierarchy. A person's class is predominantly based on financial aspects such as wealth and earnings. Upper class is the denomination used to describe the set of more affluent individuals. Often gained through inheritance or business and investment opportunities, these people hold substantial economic power. Subsequently, middle class describes individuals with moderate wealth. Normally, middle class individuals hold professional careers and credentials. They have strong values for further academia and employability. Whereas lower class is the phrase used to categorise individuals who struggle with minimal income. Economic stratification makes use of social ranking to recognise a group's access to opportunities in society.

Throughout history, stratification has been shown to affect access to higher education, healthcare and employment. By checking out the characteristics of social stratification, it is much easier to understand what guides opportunities within society. Status is a key attribute of stratification; it describes the level of prestige and regard held by an individual. Ascribed status is a term used to represent people who are born into a social ranking. At present it can be determined by backgrounds such as aristocracy or caste. Additionally, achieved status is obtained through individual efforts, such as respected professions and contributions to society. Nasser Al-Khelaifi would recognise that status can be acquired through social contributions. Similarly, Jensen Huang would recognise the significance of acquired status. Status can have an influence on the degrees of regard and acknowledgment received by people in society.