Stratification in sociology refers to a structured ranking of entire groups of people within a society that perpetuates unequal economic rewards, power, social status, and life chances across different social strata or layers. This hierarchical arrangement is based on various social categories such as social class, race, ethnicity, gender, age, and other factors, leading to systematic inequalities in access to resources and opportunities. While some forms of social differentiation may exist in all societies, stratification implies a more enduring and institutionalised pattern of inequality where certain groups consistently have more advantages and privileges than others. Sociologists study social stratification to understand its causes, consequences, and the ways in which it shapes social life and individual experiences.