Step 1: Concept Definition:
Social stratification is the hierarchical division of individuals and groups within a society. This question requires identifying the core principles of this societal structure.
Step 2: Detailed Analysis:
Four fundamental principles define social stratification:
- Societal Trait: It's a characteristic of society, not merely a result of individual differences. Stratification ranks societal categories, not solely individuals based on personal merit. Therefore, option (B) is inaccurate.
- Generational Persistence: Social position is often inherited, passing from parents to children. While social mobility is possible, the inherent structure of stratification ensures its continuity. Consequently, option (C) is correct.
- Universality and Variability: Stratification is a global phenomenon, but the criteria for value and the structure of inequality differ across societies.
- Inequality and Beliefs: Every system of inequality is underpinned by an ideology that legitimizes its existence and promotes its perceived fairness. Thus, option (D) is correct.
Option (A) is incorrect because, although societal traits like gender or race can be used as stratification bases, the resulting system of inequality is a social construct, not a natural one.
Step 3: Conclusion:
The accurate characteristics of social stratification among the provided options are its persistence across generations (C) and its support by an underlying belief system or ideology (D).