Key Takeaways
- The key difference between achieved and ascribed status is that while ascribed status is something that the individual inherits from birth, achieved status is something that the individual gains through hard work and talents.
- Ascribed status refers to the position that the individual inherits through birth, such as sex, kinship, and class of origin.
- Achieved status refers to the position that the individual achieves through dedication, commitment, skills, and qualities, such as profession and class position.
Key Difference – Ascribed vs Achieved Status
In discussions about different forms of societies and social mobility, achieved status and ascribed status are two distinct concepts. Status refers to the social and professional position of a person in relation to others. There are two categories: ascribed status and achieved status. This article examines the differences between these two statuses while broadening our understanding of each concept.
What is Ascribed Status?
Ascribed status refers to the position that the individual inherits through birth. We all have certain ascribed statuses, such as our sex, kinship, and class of origin. These cannot be changed as we are born with them. Although the importance assigned to ascribed status has declined, during pre-industrialized societies, these were very significant as one’s status laid the framework for their entire life.
For instance, the caste system that operated in some societies categorized people into different castes. Based on the caste an individual was born into, their duties, roles, and responsibilities were predefined. Even if the individual wished to engage in another activity or pursue a career of their choice, this opportunity was denied.
What is Achieved Status?
Achieved status refers to the position that the individual achieves through their dedication, commitment, skills, and qualities. Our profession and class position are examples of achieved status. Unlike ascribed status, achieved status can be changed by individual effort.
In industrial societies such as modern society, there are many opportunities for people to change their social position through hard work. This is why we consider that social mobility is possible within the framework of achieved status. For example, a person born into a lower class in society can work hard, develop their potential, and attain a higher position in society through achieved status.
What is the difference between Ascribed and Achieved Status?
Definitions of Ascribed and Achieved Status:
Ascribed Status: Ascribed status refers to the position that the individual inherits through birth.
Achieved Status: Achieved status refers to the position that the individual achieves through dedication, commitment, skills, and qualities.
Characteristics of Ascribed and Achieved Status:
Nature:
Ascribed Status: This is inherited through birth.
Achieved Status: This should be achieved through hard work.
Society:
Ascribed Status: Ascribed status gained prominence in pre-industrial societies.
Achieved Status: Achieved status gained prominence in industrial societies.
Examples of Ascribed and Achieved Status:
Ascribed Status: Sex, Caste, Race, Kinship are also ascribed statuses.
Achieved Status: Class position, profession are examples of achieved statuses.
