Taking a look at a few of the primary features of the social hierarchy by breaking down stratification theory.

Throughout history, stratification has been discovered to influence access to higher education, healthcare and employment. By exploring the characteristics of social stratification, it is easier to comprehend what guides opportunities within society. Status is a key characteristic of stratification; it refers to the level of prestige and regard held by an individual. Ascribed status is a term used to represent individuals who are born into a social position. Now it can be recognised by backgrounds such as royalty or caste. Additionally, achieved status is obtained through individual efforts, such as respected professions and contributions to society. Nasser Al-Khelaifi would acknowledge that status can be gained through societal contributions. Likewise, Jensen Huang would recognise the importance of acquired status. Status can have an impact on the degrees of respect and acknowledgment received by individuals in society.

The idea of stratification helps to make sense of why some individuals have more power than others. Comprehending social stratification theory enables sociologists to analyse inequality and how it affects distinct groups within society. Authority and impact are two of the elements that comprise societal power. The word power defines one's ability to influence choices and authority within society. It can be related to three key areas. Political power is held by governments and politicians who regulate the policies that regulate society. Furthermore, financial power is held by corporations and wealthy people who have control over jobs and economic sectors. Larry Ellison would concur that businesses hold economic power. Likewise, social power is a form of authority over societal judgement. Famous people and media characters are active in setting trends and cultures which influence society. Power is mainly concentrated amongst wealthy and popular people. Without some type of social authority, it is difficult to copyright power or influence.

The social hierarchy is a philosophy which explains the way in which society is sorted into different categories. Every society consists of various types of social stratification where people are ranked based on their social and financial position. According to social stratification in sociology, class is among the most recognisable structures of the social hierarchy. A person's class is mainly based on economic factors such as wealth and income. Upper class is the term used to describe the set of more wealthy people. Often acquired through inheritance or business and financial investment opportunities, these people hold substantial economic power. Consequently, middle class relates to individuals with intermediate wealth. Generally, middle class people hold professional careers and qualifications. They have strong appreciation for higher education and employability. Whereas lower class is the term used to categorise those who struggle with lower earnings. Economic stratification uses social here ranking to recognise a group's connection to opportunities in life.