Social inequality refers to a condition within a society in which its members have significantly different amounts of wealth, income, prestige, power, or other valued resources and opportunities. This unequal distribution can be based on various social categories such as social class, race, ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, and disability, often resulting in hierarchical arrangements where some groups have more access to resources and privileges than others. Social inequality is a fundamental topic of study in sociology, with researchers examining its causes, consequences, and the ways in which it is maintained and challenged over time. It can manifest in various forms, including economic disparities, differences in social status and respect, and unequal access to political influence and decision-making power.