Which concept refers to the variations in wealth, status, education, and power among different groups in society?

The concept that refers to the variations in wealth, status, education, and power among different groups in society is social class. Social class is a framework used to categorize individuals based on their economic position, access to resources, levels of education, and overall power within society. This categorization often highlights disparities and inequalities among groups, influencing their life chances, social interactions, and opportunities in various areas, such as employment, healthcare, and education.

Social class can be observed through attributes such as income level, occupation, and cultural capital, which can affect how individuals and groups are perceived and treated in society. The disparities among different social classes contribute significantly to the structure of society and can lead to social stratification, where groups are hierarchically ranked based on these factors. Understanding social class is crucial for analyzing societal dynamics and the implications of socioeconomic status on individuals' lives.

In contrast, social mobility pertains to the ability of individuals or families to move between social strata, which may not directly address the variations among groups. Social exclusion refers to the processes by which certain individuals or groups are systematically prevented from accessing resources or rights in society. Social differentiation highlights the distinctions made between individuals or groups within a society but does not inherently focus on the inequalities in wealth and power