Final answer:
A class system is an open form of social stratification based on social factors and individual achievements, allowing for social mobility through changes in wealth, education, and occupation.
Step-by-step explanation:
A class system is a form of social stratification where social standing is influenced by social factors and individual achievements. Unlike a caste system, which is considered closed, a class system is more open, allowing for movement between different social classes through changes in factors such as wealth, income, education, and occupation. Individuals in a class system can move upward or downward from the social class of their birth depending on their achievements and opportunities.
People are categorized into different classes within society based on characteristics that include wealth, income, education, and family background, which can establish their access to resources and power. Moreover, the class they belong to can significantly affect their life experiences, opportunities, and personal relationships, including who they marry and socialize with.
Social mobility is a key aspect of the class system, with personal choice, societal influences, and educational or career advancements enabling individuals to alter their socioeconomic status, making it a more dynamic and fluid form of social stratification compared to a caste system.