Gender Stratification

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According to Helsin, Possamai and Possamai-Inesedy (2011 p. 625) gender stratification occurs when a specific gender has unequal access to power, property and prestige. As gender is classed as a master status it forms a significant structural characteristic within society (Helsin, Possamai & Possamai-Inesedy 2011, p. 310). Therefore, it is society, through social construction that determines what gender norms are considered appropriate and can be passed through generations of people via agents of socialisation such as family, mass media or in the form of symbolic interaction (Macionis & Plummer 1997, pp. 139-141).

Due to the significance of gender in society, this paper examines gender social issues against the three P’s of Max Weber’s social class, with the addition of privileges, as recognised by the feminist theories (Helsin, Possamai & Possamai-Inesedy 2011, pp. 233 & 333). Firstly, this paper outlines the inequalities women face in obtaining property and the choice to obtain work. Secondly, the lack of women in decision making roles and how this affects power and prestige. Finally, this paper discusses the lack of women involved in community and farm decisions, and how this affects their privileges (Helsin, Possamai & Possamai-Inesedy 2011, p. 312).

Background

According to sociobiologist E.O Wilson, the hunter-gather roles that historically existed are still present in rural agricultural society (Sayers 1982, cited in Macionis & Plummer 1997, p. 353). Where men work the farm and women remain in traditional roles. Resulting in an environment similar to life prior to the industrial revolution, where gender inequality still dominates, and both private and public patriarchy is evident (Macionis & Plummer 1997, p. 358)...

... middle of paper ...

... viewed 7 January 2012, www.nrwc.com.au

New South Wales Department of Education and Communities 2011 (NSW DEC, 2011), PDHPE, Addressing gender issues in PDHPE, viewed 7 January 2011, www.curriculumsupport.education.nsw.gov.au

Public Service Commission 2011 (PSC, 2011), About EEO, viewed 7 January 2011, www.eeo.nsw.gov.au/about_eeo

Scott, J & Marshall, G 2005, Oxford dictionary of sociology, Oxford University Press, New York.

Sheridan, A & McKenzie, FH 2009, Revisiting missed opportunities – growing women’s contribution to agriculture, publication no. 09/083, Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC), Barton, ACT.

Simon, K & Harding, A 2006, Don't Rely on the Old Folks' Money: Inheritance Patterns in Australia, Elder Law Review - Article 5, viewed 2 January 2012,

http://www.austlii.edu.au/au/journals/ElderLawRw/2006/5.html#Heading76

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