Final answer:
Theoretical perspectives in sociology, such as functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism, offer explanations for the continuation of social stratification. The functionalist perspective emphasizes rewards for high skill and education, conflict theory examines inequality, and symbolic interactionism focuses on social standing and everyday interactions.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the discussion of social stratification and its persistence, conflict theory offers a compelling explanation because it critically examines the power dynamics and structural inequalities that facilitate and maintain stratification. It asserts that societal structures are designed to benefit the powerful at the expense of the less powerful, leading to persistent inequality in access to resources, opportunities, and outcomes.
Conversely, the functionalist perspective might be seen as less plausible due to its assumption that stratification is a necessary and beneficial aspect of society, providing incentives for hard work and rewarding merit, which can overlook the systemic barriers that prevent equal opportunity.
In contrast, symbolic interactionism provides insight into the everyday manifestations of social stratification, by exploring how individuals internalize and enact class differences through their interactions and the impact these patterns have on societal perceptions of class. This micro-level analysis helps to illuminate the subtle ways in which inequality is reproduced in daily life. Through all of these perspectives, we can gain a deeper understanding of the causes and effects of global stratification and the importance of studying it to highlight worldwide inequalities.