Which term describes the respect or prestige attached to a social position?

• A. respect
• B. prestige
• C. status
• D. power

Answer: (B)

Prestige is the level of esteem or honor that society attaches to a particular social position. It’s about how the social group values and respects the role itself, not just the person who holds it. This differs from status, which is the position within the social hierarchy, and from power, which is the ability to influence others. Respect is a feeling someone may have, but prestige specifically captures the socially granted regard for the position. For example, the role of a physician often carries high prestige because society highly values the knowledge and care it represents.