Final answer:
Entities defined by characteristics such as family background, occupation, and income are known as social strata (option d). These levels reflect the unequal distribution of wealth, power, and status in society. This concept contrasts with social structure, which refers to the overall organizational framework of a society and its institutions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Entities that are typically defined on the basis of characteristics such as family background, occupation, and income are known as social strata. The term refers to layers or levels within a society, which are primarily distinguished by unequal distributions of wealth, power, and status. In contrast to social strata, a social structure is the organized set of social institutions and patterns of institutionalized relationships that together compose society. When examining the way a society is formally organized, it is vital to consider the role of social structure as it outlines the routines and designates how specific functions are accomplished within a community.
Following this understanding of societal organization, social norms can be seen as the set of expectations guiding the behavior of people within a given group or society. Social norms manifest in the form of unwritten rules that have been accepted by the group, guiding members on how to behave in accordance with group or societal expectations.
An example of social stratification can be seen within a group of high school friends, where the structure might exhibit various levels of popularity or influence informed by characteristics such as socioeconomic status or participation in particular extra-curricular activities. This group adheres to the concept of social stratification as members might assume different roles and statuses within the group, influenced by personal background or attributes.