To assess social stratification, which factors would a researcher most likely evaluate?

In assessing social stratification, a researcher would focus on social class, social status, and power because these elements are fundamental in understanding how society organizes itself hierarchically.

Social class refers to the grouping of individuals based on economic factors such as income, wealth, and occupation. It often influences lifestyle, access to resources, and opportunities within society.

Social status reflects an individual's or group's prestige and social standing within the hierarchy. This can include aspects like education level, cultural recognition, and various forms of social recognition that affect interactions and perceptions in a social context.

Power relates to the ability of individuals or groups to influence others' behavior or beliefs, as well as the capacity to enforce decisions and control resources. The interplay of social class, status, and power helps illustrate the mechanisms through which stratification operates, shaping individuals' life chances and societal dynamics.

Other options incorporate relevant themes but do not cover the essential components of social stratification as comprehensively. For instance, factors like social role and social identity may contribute to individual experiences within a stratified society but do not directly measure the stratification itself. Similarly, charismatic authority might be a type of leadership style rather than a direct factor in the stratification system. Social networks and social capital are important