Weber's concept describing a large group sharing similar levels of property, power, and prestige is called what?

• A. social class
• B. caste
• C. status group
• D. ethnic group

Answer: (A)

Weber describes social structure in terms of three linked dimensions: property (economic resources), power (the ability to influence others), and prestige (social honor or status). When a large group shares similar levels of these resources and recognitions, they have comparable life chances in both the economic and social realms. This grouping is what sociologists call a social class. In Weber’s view, class is largely about economic position and the resulting opportunities and constraints, but it’s also tied to the accompanying power and prestige that position affords.

Caste would imply a rigid, birth-based hierarchy with little mobility. A status group centers on prestige and social honor, but not necessarily on shared property or power. An ethnic group focuses on cultural identity and heritage rather than the full mix of economic position, political influence, and social prestige.