What term describes the hierarchical arrangement of groups with different levels of power and resources?

The term that best describes the hierarchical arrangement of groups with different levels of power and resources is stratification. Stratification refers to the structured ranking of entire groups of people that perpetuates unequal economic rewards and power in society. It encompasses various forms like class, race, gender, and age, which contribute to the disparities in resources and capabilities among these groups.

Understanding stratification is crucial in sociology because it highlights how societal structures shape individual experiences and opportunities. It explains why certain groups may have access to more resources, better education, and greater influence in social, political, and economic spheres, leading to systemic inequality. This framework allows sociologists to analyze how these hierarchies influence life outcomes and social dynamics.