Social Stratification and Mobility Individuals in today's society are separated by many different factors such as race, ethnicity, gender, and economic status. Another form of separation is that of stratification. There are four main systems of stratification of slavery, caste, property and class. “Social stratification means the differentiation of a given population into hierarchically overlapping classes.” (Sorokin, 1964, p. 11) Stratification can take the form of an open or closed system. Closed system is one that allows little or no movement within the system. The open system is just the opposite and allows for varying degrees of movement throughout the system. There are many ways to break down the social stratification of society, but they can be traced back to three fundamental classes: economic, political and occupational stratification. In every organized social group there is a hierarchy that is followed. This hierarchy is inevitable and is observed at all levels, including those of insects and wild animals. “Every organized social group is always a stratified social body. There has not existed and does not exist any permanent social group that is “flat” and in which all members are equal.” (Sorokin, p. 12) Although social mobility and economic mobility involve different types of mobility, they often go hand in hand in Western cultures. The ability to improve one's social status and be elevated to another class is one of the driving forces of many economies. The United States follows an open class stratification system. This class system is outlined in a five-class model. Starting from the upper class and moving down to the upper middle class, to the lower middle class, to the working class, and then down to the lower class... middle of the paper... the education provided will not be as diverse as that of a wealthy school district. The likelihood of advanced education will be limited due to the financial burden placed on the family and child. If the individual advances to college, he or she will not have the luxury of having parents who provide money for food, clothing, etc. The person will therefore have to work distracting from his studies. Once the individual obtains his or her degree, he or she may no longer have the social connection and contact with the higher levels of society, thus limiting his or her job interviews. While yes, everyone has the ability to advance socially, there are many limitations and obstacles to overcome. I truly believe that through the determination of hard work anyone can advance in class distinction regardless of obstacles. The more obstacles you have, the better prepared you will be for your new social status.